Jet skis have been part of American watercraft culture for several decades now. As the popularity of jet skis grew, so did the number of injuries sustained in jet ski accidents. Jet ski operators are often inexperienced drivers who might rent the jet ski for the day, or they may behave in a careless manner, such as through excessive speed or drinking during jet ski operation. If you have been the victim of a jet ski accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Jet skis are not necessarily easy watercrafts to operate. A seasoned boater may have difficulty in initially using a jet ski without the proper training. Many people assume that they can easily pick up the operation of a jet ski or “wing it” while in use. However, this often results in severe injuries to the jet ski operator, any passengers, and others on the water.

The thrust and throttle system on jet skis often confuses new jet ski drivers, and even experienced drivers may be thrown off if they frequently switch between other watercraft and jet skis. Off throttle steering of jet skis differs from the traditional watercraft steering. Jet skis generate the thrust to propel the watercraft forward by releasing a throttle, connected to the jet pump. This is different from standard watercraft, where the thrust is generated through an exposed propeller. Since the propeller is placed downward in the water when generating thrust, a watercraft operator is typically able to accurately steer the watercraft. However, a jet ski operates differently and therefore the ease of steering directly decreases with the release of the throttle.

An off throttle accident can occur in a number of ways, but most often occurs when inexperienced jet ski operators attempt to turn and release the throttle. Since the steering effectiveness decreases with the release of the throttle, jet ski operators may lose control of the jet ski or be unable to steer the jet ski away from potential dangers. This can result in severe accidents with the jet ski and any other watercraft in the area. Off throttle accidents are a leading cause of jet ski injuries throughout the state of Texas.

Passengers and jet ski operators often face severe injuries after an off throttle accident on a jet ski. Passengers may be thrown backwards off the jet ski due to off throttle issues which could result in severe injuries as a result of the high pressure jet stream emanating from the jet ski. A jet ski operator may additionally lose control and crash into a stationary object or another watercraft.

A victim of a jet ski accident caused by off throttle steering may be able to recover for damages based on the facts of the case. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, future earnings, and pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a jet ski accident caused by off-throttle steering, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in handling jet ski claims stemming from off-throttle steering and can assist you in drafting a claim for damages against the jet ski operator or jet ski manufacturer. Contact our Texas offices today for your initial free consultation.