November 19, 2024 | Personal Injury
Research indicates that there are about one million registered jet skis in the United States. If you’re looking to have some fun on one of these personal watercraft vehicles, you’re not alone.
Still, while jet skis can certainly be thrilling to ride, they aren’t without their downsides. If you are planning to test the waters with a jet ski, find out what you need to know to stay safe.
What Does South Carolina Law Say About Operating a Jet Ski?
Any person aged 16 and over can operate a jet ski in the state of South Carolina, and those under 16 are free to operate one with less than 15 horsepower. Those under the age of 16 operating a jet ski with more than 15 horsepower must be accompanied by an adult.
Additionally, you cannot operate a jet ski between sunset and sunrise. The personal watercraft must also have a self-circling or lanyard-type cutoff switch.
South Carolina law now requires those born after July 1, 2007, to have taken and passed an approved boater safety course. However, there are exceptions, such as those with Coast Guard licenses and credentials, boating safety certificates, and boat rental safety certificates.
Proper Jet Ski Gear and Equipment
Staying safe while jet skiing requires that all drivers commit to wearing the right gear and having the right equipment. First, the law dictates that you must wear a properly fitting life jacket when operating any type of watercraft. If you fall off the jet ski and are unable to swim to safety, a life jacket can help you stay afloat until help arrives.
You may also want to wear a wetsuit when operating a jet ski. When your watercraft accelerates, it releases a jet stream out of the steering nozzle at the back of the watercraft. Depending on how a person falls off of a jet ski, a wetsuit can protect them from that forceful stream entering body cavities and causing severe internal injuries or death.
Jet ski operators should also consider water shoes, gloves, goggles, and a helmet. The shoes and gloves can help you maintain proper grip as you ride and when you’re getting on and off the watercraft. The goggles protect your eyes from water spray and debris, while a helmet can help you avoid a head injury if you fall off and hit the water’s surface too hard.
Finally, don’t ride a jet ski without a wrist lanyard. This connects your body to the engine cut-off switch. Should you fall off the jet ski, the engine will stop, and the boat will slow down, helping you avoid a potential injury.
Important Jet Ski Driving Safety Tips
Whenever you’re operating a jet ski, it’s important to do the following:
- Observe all posted speed and wake rules to avoid crashes
- Avoid overloading the watercraft with too much weight
- Leave the water when storms are rolling in
- Avoid operating a jet ski while impaired
- Report serious boating accidents to the Department of Natural Resources
Observing these rules can help you stay safe, have fun, and avoid serious injury.
Navigating Life After a Jet Ski Accident
Even if you’ve taken all safety precautions, you can still be severely injured by another person who failed to do the same. In some cases, it may be a poorly designed jet ski that caused your boating accident or injury. Either way, you may be able to hold the negligent party responsible for their actions and lack of care.
If you do decide to bring a lawsuit, consider getting in touch with an attorney who can help you determine your damages, collect the necessary evidence, find expert witnesses, and fight for your rights. When you work with the right attorney, you’ll get the advice you need to pursue justice and accountability.
Contact a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer at Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers Today
For more information, contact the personal injury law firm of Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Columbia
1333 Main St #510,
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 373-1706
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Lexington
5465 Sunset Blvd Suite B,
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 373-1302
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Orangeburg
161 Elliott St SE Suite B,
Orangeburg, SC 29115
(803) 373-7593
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Blythewood
749-2 University Village Dr,
Blythewood, SC 29016
(803) 592-6553
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers – Columbiana Dr
380 Columbiana Dr
Columbia, SC 29212