Florida Jet Ski Accident Lawyers
Injured in a Jet Ski or Personal Watercraft Accident? We Can Help.
Personal watercraft (PWCs) such as jet skis, Sea-Doos, and WaveRunners can reach speeds over 60 mph — often in crowded waterways and under the control of inexperienced riders.
Our firm represents victims of PWC and jet ski accidents across Florida and nationwide, including riders, passengers, and bystanders injured by negligent operation or defective design.
Robert Baker has successfully litigated PWC and jet ski cases for the past 25+ years. He and his team have tried numerous cases against Yamaha and Bombardier and remain UNDEFEATED!
In 2011, Mr. Baker secured a verdict of $39,840,270 in Palm Beach County, Florida, against Yamaha in the case of Perez v. Yamaha. The verdict was one of the highest in the country in 2011 and remains by far the largest verdict in the United States against a PWC manufacturer.
Most importantly, the verdict led to changes in the design of WaveRunner PWC’s where the inherent defect of “off-throttle steering” (a misnomer) was eliminated from the design. Below is a chart showing an approximately 50% reduction in jet ski accidents over the past five years, since 2000, when manufacturers were compelled, as a result of the Perez case, to “design out” or rectify the inherent phenomenon of OTS (off-throttle steering)
Mr. Baker has also defeated other PWC manufacturers at trial, including Bombardier, based upon Bombardier’s (Sea-Doo) defective warnings regarding off-throttle steering. This verdict also led Bombardier to redesign their craft by adding “OPAS” (off power assisted steering).
Below is a second chart which shows the leading causes of jet ski accidents. Oftentimes, the investigating agency will incorrectly blame inattentiveness, operator error, and the like when summarizing accident data from F.W.C. and U.S.C.G., when in actuality, an inherent design defect was the primary cause of the accident.
Based on the inherent dangers associated with such a powerful machine and the fact that novices and first-time operators often ride them, we have also won trials based on negligent and defective warnings that do not properly explain the dangers and consequences.
Specifically, we have won under the theories that Bombardiers and Yamahas had defective warnings related to off-throttle steering and that Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Bombardier had insufficient warnings about water intrusion injuries into women’s bodily cavities when they are unexpectedly ejected rearward as passengers during sudden acceleration. The highly pressurized water exiting the jet causes hydrostatic injuries and vaginal lacerations. All of the manufacturers have played down the dangers associated with and have not eliminated this risk.
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“I found Robert Baker to be very reliable, courteous, prompt, and knowledgeable. He is highly proficient at discerning the veracity in your case while showing genuine concern for what's in the best interest for his clients.”- Stefanie M.
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“He is very dedicated and caring and takes the time to explain things to you in laymen's terms so that you are fully aware of your situation and representation. In both cases I was very happy with the outcome which was settled in our favor.”- Michelle T.
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“Robert looks out for his clients’ best interest, no matter what. From our very first interactions, I could tell I was being valued and cared for. He is unabashedly unafraid to go the distance and to fight the fight. Robert is a badass!”- Suzanne C.
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“I had a jet ski accident where I almost died and hired him. He was always supportive and willing to explain me all the details about everything. I recommend him 100%.”- Ana R.
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“Robert is excellent at what he does. He always gets the best possible result for his clients, and basically holds their hands until the process is completed. Thank you!”- Alison F.
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“Mr. Baker went above and beyond when there was a time in my life when I Needed a lawyer. His ability to understand my situation and getting me to the right person was a life changing event.”- Billy K.
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“Easy, straight forward, professional and responsive service. I would definitely recommend Baker legal team to anyone seeking legal advice.”- Natalie G.
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“My Baker and his team recently represented me in accident case I was very pls with the outcome. thanks to u guys.”- Chamberlain W.
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“I recommend Robbie in the highest possible terms. Not only was the quality of his work outstanding, but he was incredibly prompt, responsive, and a pleasure to work with and talk to. 5 stars!!!”- Arielle M.
When the Waters Get Rough, We Fight for You
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Landmark Cases
In 2001, Robert argued the case of Lamz v. Geico before the Florida Supreme Court. He won this appeal which changed the landscape of Florida uninsured/underinsured motor vehicle laws.
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Trial Tested
Robert has gone to trial and won against multi-national companies and remains UNDEFEATED in personal watercraft litigation. He has been the lead trial attorney in over 50 cases.
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Former Prosecutor
Robert began his career as a prosecutor, working as an Assistant District Attorney in Kings County, New York. With over 35 years of experience, you’ll have one of Florida’s leading experts in personal injury on your side.
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Board Certified
You’ll work directly with Robert Baker, a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney who has recovered over $400 million. Less than 1% of Florida Attorneys are Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyers.