Tragic Boating Accident
American Lake in Lakewood, Washington, was the site of a horrific and tragic boating accident on March 1, 2009. That afternoon, David Kenny “DK” Ross, 14 years old at the time, was operating a kayak in the lake. DK was traveling to spend the day with his father on Silcox Island, when he was unexpectedly run over by a motor boat operated by McKinley Randle.
DK suffered horrible and life-altering injuries as a result of the event, which have left him physically and mentally handicapped. The injuries apparently include traumatic brain injury, in addition to neck injury and a collapsed lung.
The parents of DK allege that Mr. Randle was operating his boat in a negligent manner, in that he was “traveling too fast and not keeping a proper lookout.”
The State of Florida and in particular, South Florida, is a hotbed for boating accidents. Surrounded by ocean and with warm weather on a daily basis, the potential for accidents on the water are countless. The problem is heightened by the fact that many individuals who operate boats do not have the experience or knowledge of the rules of the water and boating safety generally. Adding to the danger, Florida does not require a boating license to operate a personal vessel if over a certain age (only a standard Driver’s License is needed) and operators are not required to take a safety course if over a certain age. This lays the way for potentially catastrophic accidents, similar to that experienced by DK in Washington.
At Halpern, Santos & Pinkert, P.A., our Florida boat accident attorneys cater to all types of vehicular accidents, including boating and automobile collisions. Boating accidents can be very complex and boats follow a different set of rules altogether than automobiles, known as the Navigation Rules. Two of the most important rules of boating are to keep a proper look out and to travel at a safe speed so as to avoid collision. This means that when a boating accident occurs, both vessels are considered at least partially negligent for the resultant collision.
In addition to boating accidents, we also handle all types of injuries, including traumatic brain injuries like those experienced by DK. We also handle severe spinal injury, compound fractures and even less serious muscle and ligament injuries.
If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of a boating or automobile accident, please consider having your rights protected by Halpern, Santos & Pinkert, P.A.. We know how to take the necessary steps to best protect your interests and be an advocate in your corner.
