What if I was injured on a jet ski or rental watercraft?
Several possible theories.
The operator, where another person's negligent operation caused the injury.
The rental company, on several grounds: renting to someone unqualified, failing to provide required instruction or safety information, inadequate equipment maintenance, or defective safety gear. Florida has requirements applicable to livery operations.
A manufacturer, where a mechanical defect contributed.
The rental agreement. Expect a waiver. Waivers are common and are not automatically enforceable — their reach depends on the language and on what conduct is alleged. A waiver may not cover gross negligence or statutory violations, and Florida limits waivers in certain circumstances, particularly involving minors.
What to preserve. The rental agreement, any instructional materials provided, the equipment itself, and the identity of the staff member who conducted the orientation.
No PIP applies, so medical costs fall elsewhere while a claim develops.
Keep the rental agreement. A waiver isn't the end of the analysis. ---
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