Tubing Accident-Related Injuries and Liability in Florida
Water tubing is a favorite activity for tourists and residents of South Florida. The thrill of being pulled at high speeds behind a boat as you bounce freely through the water is fun and exciting but can turn deadly in an instant. Water tubing accidents happen frequently on waterways throughout the state, so it is important to know what to do in the event you are injured while riding.
Common Tubing-Related Injuries
Being towed by a boat in an inflatable tube or float can be an exhilarating water activity, but it may also lead to serious injury or even death. Speed boats often tow tubes going 25 mph or faster. They also do sharp turns and repeatedly cut through wakes to try to send the tube flying through the air. Unfortunately, at high speeds, these tricks can cause devastating harm to riders.
Common tubing-related injuries:
- Broken bones
- Facial lacerations
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputations and disfigurement
- Dislocations
- Damage to internal organs
Most water tubing accidents are preventable. They are frequently caused by boat operator error or negligence. Depending on the situation, individuals injured in a water tubing accident may be entitled to compensation for their damages.
Determining Liability in a Water Tubing Accident
If you or your loved one is injured in a water tubing accident in Miami or South Florida, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against one or more parties. If the person operating the boat that was towing the tube you were on was negligent, meaning that they breached the duty of care they owed to you, resulting in your injuries, then you may be able to file a claim for damages.
In addition to the operator of the boat, you might be able to pursue a case against the boat rental company, another boat owner or operator (if you were struck by someone else), or a negligent manufacturer if you were injured due to a defective product.
Preventing Water Tubing Accidents
Taking the proper precautions can help you avoid dangers on the water, including tubing-related accidents. One of the most frequent causes of death in any type of boating accident is drowning. Wearing a life vest can help ensure that you remain safe even if you are thrown from the tube.
In addition to wearing a life vest, you can help prevent water tubing accidents by:
- Ensuring the boat is being operated at a safe speed
- Never boating under the influence
- Checking to make sure that all equipment on the boat is in good working condition
- Assigning a proper lookout
- Avoiding going out during inclement weather
- Not wearing clothing that could snag or become entangled
If you are thrown from the tube, there may be a high risk that you could be struck by another boat. Ensuring that you are only tubing in a less congested area can help to prevent life-threatening injuries related to being hit by a boat.
Contact Our Office to Learn More
Were you injured in a water tubing accident in Miami or South Florida?Contact Mase Seitz Briggs at (844) 627-3529 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Our trial lawyers can help you understand your rights after an accident. Call now to speak directly with a member of our legal team.