In the summertime, people flock to Virginia Beach for outdoor activities like splashing in the ocean, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Jet skiing is very popular in the area because of all of the open water but there are rules and regulations that jet skiers must abide by to legally and safely operate their vessel. There are over one million jet skis registered across the United States, and while these recreational vessels are good fun they are also very dangerous. Jet ski accidents make up 20% of all boating accidents.
An accident on a jet ski can have major repercussions. Because there is little protection, riders are more exposed to being catastrophically injured should an accident happen. If you have been involved in a Virginia Beach jet ski accident because of the negligence of another party, then recovering the costs of your damages is crucial. The Virginia Beach catastrophic injury attorney and the experienced legal team at Virginia Beach Injury Law can discuss your case with you and provide you guidance on how to get the compensation that you need.
What are Virginia’s Jet Ski Laws?
If you are renting a jet ski or buying one in Virginia, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the laws in the state.
- People aged 14 and older must take a boating safety course and individuals that are 14 and 15 must show proof of successful completion of the course.
- Riders must have a USCG life jacket.
- Jet skiing is not permitted at sunrise and at sunset.
- Only the number of riders the jet ski is designed to hold can be on the vessel and no more than that number.
- Drive at excess speeds by other swimmers in the open water, near boat rams, or by docks and piers.
- Operate your jet ski in a reckless manner.
- Be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when driving a jet ski.
There are several ways that Norfolk jet ski accidents happen including:
- Drivers that are drunk and make errors and misjudgments.
- Drivers that do not have enough experience to handle the jet ski.
- Jet skis that have defects and malfunction.
- Speeding through the water.
- Riding a jet ski in inclement weather conditions.
Each year there are more than 700 jet ski accidents reported in the country and approximately 40 people will lose their lives because of these tragic incidents. It is important to secure all of the compensation you need to move forward after your jet ski accident. This can include the costs of your medical treatment, paying for damaged personal property, accounting for wages that you missed from having to take time off of work to heal, and money for pain and suffering.
Speak with a Virginia Jet Ski Attorney Today
The Virginia Beach jet ski accident attorney at Virginia Beach Injury Law has experience helping victims of jet ski accidents get the compensation that they are entitled to. To schedule your free consultation with the skilled Norfolk jet ski accident injury lawyer at Virginia Beach Injury Law please call (757) 802-4662.
