Injured on Lake Mead? What to Know About Filing a Jet Ski Accident Claim in Nevada
Lake Mead is one of the most popular recreational destinations in the Southwest, attracting thousands of locals and tourists each year for boating, swimming, and high-speed jet skiing. While jet skis offer thrilling adventures on the water, they also come with real risks. Accidents can happen quickly and often result in serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or even drowning. If you or a loved one has been injured in a jet ski accident on Lake Mead, you may be entitled to compensation—but it’s important to understand your legal rights under Nevada law, that is what Mainor Ellis is here for.
Common Causes of Jet Ski Accidents
Jet ski accidents are often the result of someone’s negligence. Common causes include:
- Operator inexperience or recklessness
- Speeding or unsafe maneuvers
- Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failure to follow boating laws and safety guidelines
- Mechanical failure or defective equipment
- Lack of proper supervision during rentals or tours
In crowded waterways like Lake Mead, even a moment of distraction or carelessness can lead to a devastating collision with another jet ski, boat, swimmer, or fixed object.
Who May Be Liable?
Determining liability in a jet ski accident depends on the circumstances. Possible at-fault parties may include:
- Another jet ski operator who was driving recklessly
- A rental company that failed to maintain the equipment or properly instruct the rider
- A tour company that neglected safety procedures or supervision
- The manufacturer of a defective jet ski or component
- The injured person, if they were operating the jet ski negligently (which could affect the claim under Nevada’s comparative negligence laws)
Even if you were partially at fault, Nevada law allows you to recover damages as long as you were less than 51% responsible for the accident. Your total compensation would simply be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
What to Do After a Jet Ski Accident on Lake Mead
If you’re injured in a jet ski accident, here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Report the incident to the National Park Service or local authorities.
- Document everything—take photos of the scene, injuries, and jet skis.
- Gather contact information from witnesses and involved parties.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer.
- Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in Nevada boating and recreational accident claims.
How Mainor Ellis Can Help
At Mainor Ellis, we understand the unique legal challenges that come with jet ski accidents on Lake Mead. These cases often involve a mix of state and federal regulations, liability waivers, and corporate defendants like rental companies or equipment manufacturers. We’ll thoroughly investigate the accident, identify liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve—including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Free Consultation Available
If you or someone you love has been injured in a jet ski accident at Lake Mead, don’t wait to get the help you need. Call Mainor Ellis today for a free consultation with our experienced Las Vegas personal injury attorneys.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/NRS-488.html
