Jet Ski Crash Results in Death of One, Operator Charged

A North Carolina man is being charged with felony death by impaired boating after causing a crash that led to the death of another man. An article on this emerging police investigation is available here.

About the Crash

Authorities report 911 calls of a jet skiing accident at Lake James Park began coming in on Friday, July 5^th, at around 10 p.m. When officials arrived at the scene, they found one man dead as a result of the incident. The man responsible for the jet ski crash was then charged with felony death by impaired boating. The accident remains under investigation.

Impaired Boating Crashes by the Numbers

According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s most recent report, in 2017 alone, alcohol use was the contributing factor in 275 boating accidents resulting in 102 deaths and 227 injuries, making it the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

Stay Safe on the Water

The most important piece of equipment on any watercraft is the operator. It’s vital that they not only know what to do, but also that they understand what to avoid when on the water. Stay alert and avoid the following:

• Alcohol/Drugs: Operating a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol and drugs is not only illegal, but it also greatly reduces reaction time and can cause a serious accident.
• Inexperience: In North Carolina, there are strict laws in place regarding those who are legally allowed to operate a vessel. These laws serve to keep everyone on the water safe. For more information on these laws and regulations, click here.
• High Speeds: Speeding, especially in no wake zones or crowded areas, can get you in serious trouble and can cause injury.
• Bad Weather: Worsening conditions can quickly ruin a day out on the water.  Always check local route and destination weather before going out.
• Inattention: Becoming distracted and unfocused can cause an accident in a split second, resulting in the injury of innocent people.

We Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident through no fault of your own, contact the experienced North Carolina Serious Injury Lawyers at Henson Fuerst by calling 919-781-1107 or by completing a free initial consultation form.

When you contact Henson Fuerst, you will speak with one of our experienced Raleigh Personal Injury Attorneys. They will investigate every detail of your situation at no cost to you—and fight hard to protect your rights. At Henson Fuerst, you will never pay an attorney’s fee up front—and you owe us nothing unless we recover for you.

Call Henson Fuerst, Because Your Case Matters