Ricardo Almanza (Full Name: Ricardo Aponte Almanza) Killed In Bullhead City Jet Ski Accident On The Colorado River In Community Park
BULLHEAD CITY, ARIZONA (July 10, 2022) – A California man identified as Ricardo Almanza, 43, has tragically died in a Colorado River jet ski accident in Community Park.
Mohave County police officials are saying that the accident took place on Wednesday. Ricardo Aponte Almanza was one of several people swimming in Community Park.
A woman lost control of her rented jet ski and ran over four people. Paramedics were called to the scene of the accident in order to help all of the victims.
Ricardo Almanza was taken to the University Medical Center in Las Vegas in order to receive treatment. Sadly, he died due to the severity of his injuries.
It remains unclear if the jet ski operator will face any charges following the crash. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Community Park Jet Ski Accidents
Accidents involving jet skis may seem like freak occurrences, but they are far more common than many people realize. According to Jet Drift, “Based on the USCG report, 600-700 jet ski accidents are reported each year, resulting in around 40 deaths, although this tendency has been declining over the past decade.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a jet ski accident.
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Driver distraction
- Unfamiliarity with jet ski controls
There are laws with respect to operating a boat or jet ski in much the same way that there are rules of the road. Boat operators and jet ski drivers must dramatically slow down when they are in range of swimmers. If a jet ski operator hits a swimmer in the water, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. Depending on the facts of any case, liability for a jet ski accident could extend beyond the at fault driver.
The company that rented a jet ski could potentially be held at fault for an accident. Negligent entrustment is one of the main causes of jet ski accidents. Companies must only rent products and vehicles to people who are otherwise qualified to use those products or vehicles. For example, if a person that rented a jet ski was visibly intoxicated, this could form the basis of a negligent entrustment claim. There are several elements that will typically need to be demonstrated in a negligent entrustment claim involving a jet ski.
- The operator of a jet ski was incompetent to drive it safely at the time that they were given permission to drive it.
- The owner of the jet ski knew (or should have known) that the driver was incompetent to drive it safely.
- The defendant jet ski owner entrusted the driver with the jet ski.
- The incompetence of the driver of the jet ski is what caused the plaintiff to suffer injuries.
The family of a person that died in an accident with a rented jet ski may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Sadly, though, jet ski rental companies will often fight hard to deny liability for any accident. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Community Park Jet Ski Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ricardo Almanza. It is our sincere hope that the other victims will be able to make a full recovery. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what happened.
Do you need more information about a Community Park jet ski accident? Our team of consumer safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
