Frequently Asked Questions
Are Jet Skis safe for children?
A: Jet Skis, and other personal watercrafts (PWC), are widely popular among children and teenagers, but experts question how safe the vehicles are for inexperienced and immature operators. Over 100 children are injured or killed annually in personal watercraft accidents. Additionally, in a study conducted by the University of Florida, trauma surgeons found that children injured in accidents involving personal watercrafts were more seriously injured than those involved in motorboat collisions.
Some doctors, like Dr. Elizabeth Beierle, believe that parents can help prevent serious injuries to their children and those in their Jet Ski’s path. She said, “I think that parents need to be made aware that these are dangerous vehicles and the reason that they’re dangerous is because of the fact that there are people, i.e. – children, that are just too young to operate them and parents need to be aware and need to be made aware that these are not toys.”
Common injuries from a Jet Ski or other personal watercraft accident include:
- Closed-head injuries
- Trauma to the chest
- Abdominal injuries
- Spinal injuries
Many personal injuries from a PWC are similar to those experienced by motorcycle riders and occur when a personal watercraft operator strikes an obstacle and is ejected from the vehicle.
Common personal watercraft accidents include collisions with:
- Other vehicles
- Docks
- Tree stumps hidden in the water
- Other fixed objects
Parents should implement rules concerning their children’s personal watercraft usage and follow tips including the following:
- Check with your state to determine licensing requirements for boaters under the age of 18
- Use a life jacket and make sure it fits properly
- Keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from the pump intake
- Never operate a Jet Ski in less than 24 inches of water
- Make sure an adult is present whenever a child is operating a personal watercraft.
If you or your child has been injured to due a personal watercraft accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Kiley Law Group, LLP. We will evaluate your case for FREE – 1-888-208-1695.
