Swimming Accident and Admiralty Jurisdiction Agawam MA
Swimming Accident and Admiralty Jurisdiction
Does a swimming accident involving a jet ski trigger admiralty jurisdiction?
It depends where the swimming accident occurred. For example, if the swimming accident involves a jet ski that is on the navigable waters of the United States, then admiralty law will apply. Imagine a scenario where a jet ski on Lake Michigan hits a swimmer and the swimmer has severe head injuries. Because the accident happened on Lake Michigan, a navigable waterway, and because a vessel was involved, a jet ski, admiralty jurisdiction would apply. A jet ski is considered a vessel under admiralty law. Lake Michigan is a navigable waterway because its shores touch more than one state. If the jet ski and the swimmer were on a land locked lake within the boundaries of one state like Indiana or Wisconsin, then admiralty law wouldn't apply, although the injured swimmer could seek money damages in the negligence, tort, or accident law of the state where the accident occurred. It is important to contact an attorney if your state if you think you have a valid claim. You should do so as soon as possible, because every state has a statute of limitations which limits how long you have to sue. If you would like an experienced injury lawyer to review your case, fill out our case evaluation form and an attorney will contact you for a no-cost, no obligation evaluation.
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