Florida Jet Ski Accident Lawyer

Representation for Watercraft Injury Victims

At Scolaro Law, we fight relentlessly to hold negligent parties accountable in jet ski and personal watercraft injury cases.

Fighting for Compensation After Personal Watercraft Accidents

When reckless operators, defective equipment, tour operators or negligent rental companies cut corners to prioritize profit over safety, the consequences are often catastrophic. Florida personal injury attorney Tom Scolaro has seen firsthand the devastating aftermath of preventable jet ski accidents, leading to traumatic brain injuries, lost loved ones, and lifelong disabilities that could have been avoided.

Whether your injury involved a reckless or intoxicated operator, poorly maintained equipment, or defective components, our team has the maritime law knowledge and courtroom experience to pursue the maximum compensation in every case.

Why Our Clients Trust Us After Tragic Jet Ski Accidents

$2.9 Million Settlement in Fatal Jet Ski Collision

One of our most tragic and hard-fought cases arose from a fatal jet ski collision in the Florida Keys. A young woman from New Jersey was vacationing with her family when she was violently struck from behind by another jet ski. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the local hospital. The entire incident was captured on GoPro video, leaving no doubt about the violent nature of the impact.

Ultimately, Scolaro secured a $2.9 million wrongful death settlement for the victim’s family. This recovery not only honored her life but sent a clear message: We will go to any length, anywhere in the world, to hold negligent parties accountable. This case reflects what sets Scolaro Law apart: Tireless investigation; a deep knowledge of Florida’s local and maritime laws; and an unwavering commitment to securing justice for our clients.

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The Hidden Dangers of Personal Watercraft in Florida

Florida leads the nation in boating accidents, with personal watercraft (PWC) involved in nearly 25% of all reported incidents. These small but powerful machines reach speeds over 65 mph, delivering tremendous force upon impact. Unlike boats, jet ski riders are completely exposed to collisions and the elements.

The greatest danger is not speed alone, it is the combination of inexperienced operators, minimal training, and the false sense of security these “toys” create. Tour operators and rental companies often hand over keys after nothing more than a short instructional video.

Common Causes of Florida Jet Ski Accidents

At Scolaro Law, we’ve investigated hundreds of jet ski injury cases. Most accidents have a clear pattern. They occur when an operator or company failed to follow the rules, ignored safety standards, or put profit over protection. Here are some of the most common causes we uncover.

Operator Negligence

Many jet ski accidents are caused by riders who operate recklessly, exceed their skill level, or ignore basic safety rules.

Tour Operators & Rental Company Failures

Rental companies and tour guides can be held liable when they skip safety steps, rent to unqualified users, or fail to maintain their equipment.

Mechanical Defects

Some crashes result from equipment failure, where design flaws or poor maintenance lead to loss of control or system breakdowns.

Environmental Hazards

Changing weather, tides, or low visibility can make jet skiing dangerous, especially when operators fail to warn riders or adjust for conditions.

If you have been a victim of a jet ski accident, contact us today for a free consultation.

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Catastrophic Injuries Seen in Jet Ski Accidents

Due to the exposed nature of jet ski operation, injuries are often severe and life-altering:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries:  High-speed impacts cause concussions, brain bleeds, and permanent cognitive damage.
  • Spinal Cord Trauma: Fractures or severed spinal cords often lead to paralysis and lifelong care needs.
  • Orthopedic Injuries: Multiple fractures, joint destruction, and crushing injuries requiring complex surgery.
  • Internal Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma causing internal bleeding, ruptured organs, and life-threatening emergencies.
  • Drowning and Near-Drowning: Unconscious riders face immediate drowning risk, often resulting in oxygen-deprivation brain damage.

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(305) 424-2300

The Complex Legal Landscape of Jet Ski & Maritime Accidents

Jet ski accidents often fall under federal maritime law, creating a complex legal framework distinct from standard personal injury claims.

Liability Waivers in Jet Ski Cases

Jet ski rental companies often use waivers to avoid responsibility for injuries. Under Florida and maritime law, these waivers have limits. With over 120 years of combined experience, the team at Scolaro Law knows how to challenge even the toughest waivers and fight for compensation. 

Maritime vs. State Law 

Accidents on navigable waters are governed by federal maritime law, which affects remedies and time limits. The law applied depends on the accident’s location and circumstances.

Limitation of Liability Act

Watercraft owners may attempt to limit liability to the vessel’s value through federal proceedings. Skilled maritime lawyers know how to challenge these attempts and protect your recovery

Comparative Fault

Even if you share blame, maritime law allows recovery reduced by your percentage of fault — not eliminated entirely.

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Why Immediate Action Matters in Jet Ski Accident Lawsuits

Evidence in jet ski and personal watercraft accidents disappears quickly: weather changes, witnesses vanish, and crucial records are often lost or destroyed. Our team acts fast to:

  • Preserve critical evidence
  • Secure witness statements
  • Obtain weather and water condition data
  • Notify all potential defendants
  • Conduct independent accident reconstruction
  • Retain expert maritime investigators
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What to Do After a Jet Ski Accident

In the aftermath of a serious jet ski accident, your actions can make a meaningful difference in protecting both your health and your legal rights:

  • Prioritize medical care. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek professional medical evaluation immediately. Hidden injuries, particularly head trauma or internal damage, are common in watercraft accidents.
  • Document the scene. If possible, gather photographs of the accident location, damaged equipment, and any visible injuries. Identify and obtain contact information for witnesses.
  • Preserve records. Secure any rental agreements, safety waivers, or instructional materials provided by the tour operator or rental company.
  • Avoid speaking with insurers or making statements. Insurance representatives and rental companies are not looking out for your interests.
  • Call Scolaro Law and consult an experienced maritime attorney promptly. Time is critical. Early legal intervention ensures evidence is preserved and your rights are protected from the outset.

Who Is Liable in Florida Jet Ski Accidents?

Determining liability requires a thorough investigation into all potential defendants. At Scolaro Law, we know how to identify every responsible party, whether it is an operator, rental company, or manufacturer, and build strong cases to hold them accountable.

  • Negligent Operators: Reckless, intoxicated, or inexperienced riders are personally liable for injuries they cause.
  • Rental Companies / Liveries: Florida mandates strict safety requirements for jet ski rental operations. Violating these makes companies liable.
  • Watercraft Manufacturers: Defective steering, throttle, or safety systems can make manufacturers responsible.
  • Negligent Entrustment: Owners who loan watercraft to intoxicated or unskilled riders may be liable for foreseeable harm.
  • Event Organizers: Tours, races, and organized water activities lacking proper safety protocols face potential liability.
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What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of jet ski accidents in Florida are entitled to receive compensation for the following damages. At Scolaro Law, we work closely with medical experts, financial specialists, and accident investigators to fully assess your losses and build a case for maximum recovery.

Economic Damages

  • Medical expenses (current and future)
  • Lost wages / diminished earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Home modifications for disability
  • Adaptive technology and care

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disfigurement or disability
  • Loss of companionship (wrongful death cases)

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or misconduct, additional damages punish wrongdoers and deter future recklessness.

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Your Partner in Navigating Complex Jet Ski Litigation

Why Clients Choose Scolaro Law

At Scolaro Law, we bring decades of proven success in maritime and personal injury litigation, with a commitment to holding negligent parties accountable. While based in Miami, we handle jet ski injury cases throughout Florida, understanding local waterways and regulations.

25+ Years of Experience

We understand the complexities of watercraft injury litigation and have litigated maritime injury cases throughout Florida.

Proven Track Record

Over $500 million recovered for injured clients, including substantial results in jet ski accident cases.

Rapid Response Team

We move quickly to gather evidence, consult marine experts, and build a strong case from day one.

No Fee Unless You Win

All cases are handled on contingency, meaning no fees unless we recover for you.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“My family and I are extremely blessed to have had Tom and his team represent us during the most difficult time of our lives.”

Tom’s tireless work ethic was evident, revealed to us through constant communication and updates throughout the lengthy process. Tom handled our case as I would have handled it, if I had his legal expertise, with relentless determination, ferociousness, professionalism and integrity. That being said, his kindness, compassion and transparent genuine dedication to me and my family showed in every interaction. For whomever is reading this, and is considering being represented by him and his team, I will leave you with this, making this decision can and will alter the trajectory of your life. It has for me and my family, I wish you well, choose wisely.

Fran

What Our Clients Are Saying

“Highly Talented, Honest, Compassionate Lawyer”

My wife suffered a serious injury when we were visiting Miami. We hired an injury lawyer who failed to get us a satisfactory settlement after many months. We transferred our case to Tom and his team. Tom, Renaud and the rest of the team care deeply about their clients and go far beyond the client/attorney relationship. Our experience with Tom and Renaud was very satisfactory from the first moment we consulted with Tom. Tom and Renaud always responded quickly and effectively to all our questions. They did a brilliant work investigating and researching evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing for mediation. Tom hired a professional photographer to produce a short documentary video to highlight the amount of pain and suffering which my wife and every member of our family have suffered due to the injury. This video in addition to the many talents of Tom have ensured the satisfactory settlement which we got. Tom helped us to achieve a very satisfactory settlement, which was more than double what our first attorney managed to negotiate. The amount of investigation and research which Tom and Renaud put in our case was unbelievable. The way and strategy that Tom used to negotiated with the insurance company was amazing. Tom is an honest, compassionate, and extremely talented attorney, and above all he is a great negotiator. I would highly recommend him, and his amazing team, to anyone who needs a personal injury lawyer. 

O.R.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“I would highly recommend Scolaro Law to anyone that needs someone on their side.”

Tom and his whole team were great. My suit took a long time, and they explained and guided me through every step. They were patient and kind, and made sure it was as easy for me as they possibly could. They didn’t just care about how much of a settlement they could get; they cared about the bottom dollar for Me. They didn’t just work the case; they understood it. Their knowledge of the legal system, what works and what doesn’t, is hard to find. I would highly recommend Scolaro Law to anyone that needs someone on their side.

Maria

What Our Clients Are Saying

“It was truly a pleasure to work with all the team of Scolaro Law.”

From our very first consultation, Thomas Scolaro was knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my case. Tom and his legal assistant Barbie took the time to explain every step of the legal process, ensuring I fully understood my options and potential outcomes. They were always prompt in responding to any questions or concerns I had, making me feel supported and well-informed throughout. Thomas’s expertise and dedication truly showed in the handling of my case. He fought tirelessly to achieve the best possible result, and thanks to hard work of all Scolaro law team, the outcome exceeded my expectations. It was clear that the team not only knew the law inside and out but also genuinely cared about my well-being. If you’re looking for a professional, compassionate, and highly skilled attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Thomas Scolaro and I am grateful to have had him by my side.

Nataliia

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When you retain our firm, you get more than just one lawyer. You get a dedicated team that understands these waters and will fight tirelessly on your behalf. 

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