Representing PWC & Jet Ski Accident Victims
Personal watercraft (PWCs) such as jet skis, Sea-Doos, and WaveRunners can reach speeds over 60 mph — often in crowded waterways and under the control of inexperienced riders.
Our firm represents victims of PWC and jet ski accidents across Florida and nationwide, including riders, passengers, and bystanders injured by negligent operation or defective design.
Call Baker Legal Team at 888-468-4608 or submit your case online today. Consultations are free and confidential — you pay no attorney's fees unless we win.
A Landmark Record Against PWC Manufacturers
Robert Baker has successfully litigated PWC and jet ski cases for the past 30+ years. He and his team have tried numerous cases against Yamaha and Bombardier and remain UNDEFEATED.
In 2011, Mr. Baker secured a verdict of $39,840,270 in Palm Beach County, Florida, against Yamaha in the case of Perez v. Yamaha. The verdict was one of the highest in the country in 2011 and remains by far the largest verdict in the United States against a PWC manufacturer.
Most importantly, the verdict led to changes in the design of WaveRunner PWCs where the inherent defect of “off-throttle steering” was eliminated from the design. Mr. Baker has also defeated other PWC manufacturers at trial, including Bombardier, based upon Bombardier’s (Sea-Doo) defective warnings regarding off-throttle steering. This verdict also led Bombardier to redesign their craft by adding “OPAS” (off power assisted steering).
$39,840,270
Perez v. Yamaha verdict (2011)
30+ Years
Litigating PWC & jet ski cases
Undefeated
At trial against Yamaha & Bombardier
National Overview: PWC Accidents in the United States
Personal Watercraft Specific Data for 2024
Of vessel types where data were known, PWCs accounted for 19% of reported incidents.
PWCs: 38 total deaths (10 drownings + 28 other deaths)
PWCs: 563 injuries
Florida's Waters: The Nation's Epicenter for PWC Accidents
Florida leads the nation with over 1 million registered vessels and more boating accidents than any other state.
2025 Florida PWC statistics:
- 161 reportable PWC accidents (~23% of all state boating accidents)
- 12 PWC-related deaths
- Nearly half involved collisions with another vessel
- Hotspot counties: Monroe, Miami-Dade, and Okaloosa
Source: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, 2025 Boating Accident Statistical Report
Common Types of PWC / Jet Ski Accidents
Vessel-to-vessel collisions during group rides or rentals
Collisions with fixed objects such as docks or channel markers
Ejections and overboard falls leading to blunt trauma or propeller injury
Capsizing or swamping from instability or improper weight balance
Leading Causes of PWC Crashes
- Operator inexperience, especially when first-time or rental riders lack training
- Inattention or poor lookout in crowded waterways
- Excessive speed / reckless operation
- Alcohol or drug impairment
- Mechanical or equipment failure (steering, throttle, or engine issues)
Safety Fact: Nearly one in four fatal boating accidents involve alcohol, and most drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.
Personal Watercraft Defects and Product Liability
Not every Jet Ski accident is caused by operator error. In some cases, defective design or manufacturing is to blame. Common defects we investigate include:
- Steering or throttle failure resulting in loss of control
- Hull instability or design flaws leading to sudden capsizing
- Fuel-system leaks or fires
- Improper warning labels or inadequate instructions
- Dealer or rental-fleet negligence in maintaining recalled units
Manufacturers have a duty to produce watercraft that are safe when used as intended and to warn users of known hazards. When they fail, they can be held liable for injuries and deaths that result.
What to Do After a Jet Ski Accident
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or local law enforcement.
- Document everything, including photos, witness names, and PWC registration/HIN.
- Preserve the vessel and do not allow repairs or release it until inspected.
- Contact an experienced boating accident attorney to protect your rights and investigate potential negligence or product defect claims.
How Baker Legal Team Can Help
- Accident-scene investigation and reconstruction
- Retrieval of Coast Guard / FWC reports and witness statements
- Expert inspection of PWC systems for defect evidence
- Coordination with medical and economic experts for damages
- Aggressive pursuit of claims for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death
Contact Our PWC Accident Attorneys
If you or someone you love has been injured in a jet ski or personal watercraft accident, our legal team is ready to help. We handle cases throughout Florida and nationwide, and consultations are free and confidential. You pay no attorney’s fees unless we win.
Call Baker Legal Team at 888-468-4608 or submit your case online today.
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