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Dallas Texas TX Boating and Personal Watercraft Accidents 101

Written by: Jason Eric Kipness

Reputation Level 14

Personal Injury

Posted over 2 years ago. Applies to Texas, 1 helpful vote, 0 comments

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Why do boat and personal watercraft accidents occur?

These accidents occur because of alcohol, excessive speed, defective boat/watercrafts, dangerous and reckless operation of boats/watercrafts, driver inattention, driver inexperience and underage drivers.

When must one assert a claim for boat and watercraft injuries?

A claim must be asserted two years from the date of the accident or two years from the date of death if a person dies from an accident.

If a person dies from a boat or watercraft accident, does a claim still exist.

Yes. A claim can be asserted as a wrongful death and survival claim.

What damages are available for a boat or watercraft claim?

Compensation can be made for medical bills, lost wages, pain, disfigurement, impairment and emotional trauma.

What types of watercraft can cause accidents and personal injuries?

Types of watercraft include jet boats, speed boats, yachts, sailboats, cigarette boats, ski boats, fishing boats, party boats, sea doos, and jet skis,

What are the requirements to be able to operate a boat or personal watercraft alone in Texas?

In Texas, a person cannot operate a windblown vessel over 14 feet; a motorboat with more than 10 horsepower, or personal watercraft with more than 10 horse power unless he passes a boater education class or examination prescribed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife. You must also be at least 13 years of age. This rule applies to any person born after 9-1-84; was under 18 before 9-1-84; is under 16 and is accompanied by a person 18 or older. A person born before 9-1-84 does not have to take boater education course or exam.

Any special requirements to operate a personal watercraft in Texas?

Yes.

Are there open container laws for boats in Texas?

Open containers are legal in boats in Texas but operators of boats are subject to boating while intoxicated laws, similar to driving a vehicle. Operators and passengers are subject to public intoxication laws.

What are some boating safety tips?

Some safety tips are: always wear a life jacket (mandatory for children 13 or younger or people on personal watercrafts); avoid alcohol, enroll in a boater education course (even if not mandatory); do not overload the boat, operate boat at safe speed, have a passenger serve as lookout; be wary of low water areas/submerged objects; obey the 50 foot rule of operating a personal watercraft .

What should one do if involved in a boating accident?

Call 911. If injured, get immediate medical attention. Take pictures of the accident scene, boats, and visible injuries. Contact a boat accident attorney.