Who is Liable for a Jet Ski Accident in Texas?

It's hard to imagine a better way to spend a hot summer afternoon than being out on the water on a jet ski or boat. But when you involve the heavy and powerful equipment of personal watercraft, injuries can happen in an instant.

Watercraft accidents occur for many reasons, including alcohol or drug consumption, negligence, inexperience, and carelessness. Jet ski and boating accidents can have serious and expensive medical consequences. 

Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you prove negligence and determine who is liable for your injuries and damages.   

Who Can You Sue in Texas for Watercraft Accidents?

Watercraft and jet ski accidents are often the result of negligence. Before you file a lawsuit, you must understand who might be liable for your boat/jet ski accident. An experienced lawyer will be able to explain the possibilities for your case based on your unique circumstances.

The Operator of a Boat or Jet Ski

Accidents are usually caused by the operator of another watercraft. In order to prove a case against the operator, you must demonstrate the following:

• The operator had a duty of care to you.
• The operator breached their duty of care; that is to say, they were careless.
• The operator's carelessness caused your boat or jet ski accident.
• You suffered injuries and other losses as a result of the accident.

In order to prove fault on the part of the operator, you'll need evidence of negligence. Additionally, you must provide evidence of the losses you have suffered. 

The Owner of the Watercraft Vehicle

The watercraft owner and operator are sometimes the same individual. But sometimes, the owner lets another operator use their boat or jet ski. If a boat owner allows a person to operate the boat in an unsafe manner, the owner may be held responsible for negligent entrustment. If that happens, you may have a legal claim against both of the parties.

A Watercraft Rental or Sales Business

Businesses that rent and sell watercrafts must ensure that they are safe. Rental boat facilities, for example, must ensure that each vessel is properly inspected, maintained, and safe to operate. A lawsuit can be filed against them if your lawyer can prove that they failed to do these things, and this resulted in your jet ski accident.

Restaurants or Bars Selling Alcoholic Beverages

Bars and restaurants can be held responsible for overserving patrons who cause damage or injury to others. It is possible for a bar or restaurant to be liable if a watercraft operator purchased alcohol from them. 

Other Passengers on the Watercraft

Passengers who behave recklessly on a watercraft could be held responsible for accidents if they cause the operator or another passenger to fall overboard and get hurt.

Contact Our Texas Boat and Jet Ski Accident Attorneys

If you are injured in a jet ski or watercraft accident, we will do everything in our power to win you the compensation you deserve. Our Texas boat and jet ski accident attorneys can help you determine your legal options and build your case against the at-fault party. Contact us today to speak with our experienced personal injury lawyers at (888) 430-0906.