Personal Watercrafts And The Dangers
Personal watercrafts (PWC), also known as jet skis, became popular in the 1980s when several manufacturers started mass-producing them. They are marketed as an affordable watercraft that the entire family can enjoy. The speed and agility of PWC’s created a new boating experience. The interest from those who were not as experienced in boating has caused countless injuries.
Since these PWCs were put out on the market, the focus has been to get them to be faster and faster, with today’s engine size being about 1500cc, with many coming with the option to super charge the engine. Some PWCs have the capability to get to 30 mph in a second’s time, with top speeds of about 60-70 mph.The danger with this is that they have no rudder on the craft so in order to steer, the driver must accelerate.
From top speed it also takes the craft about 300-400 feet to come to a complete stop. In order to avoid danger, the driver must accelerate away, which is contrary to most riders’ natural reaction.
Although advances have been made to the machine’s power, nothing has been done to improve the safety of it.
Injuries due to PWCs are continuing to increase. It is time the manufacturers start emphasizing this.
If you have been involved in a jet ski accident or PWC accident in Ohio and would like to speak with a lawyer about your rights, call 800.637.8170 to schedule a free consultation.
