7 Injured After Boat Crashes Into Rocks Near Jetty Park

Seven people were hospitalized Sunday evening after a boat struck a rock jetty near Jetty Park in Brevard County, according to local authorities.

The crash occurred around 6:20 p.m. in the port area across from Jetty Park. Canaveral Fire Rescue confirmed that seven victims were transported to local hospitals, with four listed as trauma alerts due to the severity of their injuries. Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Port Canaveral authorities, and emergency rescue units.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is leading the investigation to determine what caused the boat to crash into the rock barrier. Officials have not released the names of those injured, and the circumstances surrounding the collision remain unclear.

Florida has more registered recreational vessels than any other state — and, unfortunately, consistently leads the nation in boating accidents. Jetty Park and Port Canaveral, in particular, are high-traffic waterways used by commercial vessels, recreational boaters, fishermen, and cruise ships.

Common causes of rock jetty and shoreline collisions include:

• Operator inattention or inexperience
• Speeding or reckless operation
• Navigational errors
• Nighttime or low-light visibility
• Failure to maintain a proper lookout
• Alcohol or drug impairment
• Mechanical failure or equipment issues

Until investigators release their findings, any of these factors may have contributed to the Jetty Park crash.

Who Could Be Liable for the Jetty Park Boat Crash?

Boating accidents often involve multiple potentially liable parties, especially when several people are injured. Liability will depend on the findings of the FWC investigation and any independent reviews.

Possible responsible parties may include:

1. The Boat Operator

Boat operators have a legal duty to navigate safely, avoid hazards, and protect passengers. They may be liable if they:

• Failed to maintain a proper lookout
• Operated the vessel at unsafe speeds
• Were distracted or impaired
• Failed to use navigation lights properly
• Ignored channel markers or rock jetty warnings

2. The Vessel Owner

Even if the owner was not operating the boat, they can be held liable for:

• Allowing an inexperienced or unqualified operator to control the boat
• Failing to maintain the vessel properly

3. The Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider

If a mechanical failure, engine problem, or malfunctioning navigation equipment contributed to the crash, a product liability claim may exist.

Legal Options for Injured Boating Passengers

Individuals injured in boating accidents in Florida may pursue claims for:

• Medical bills and future medical care
• Lost wages and future loss of earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Emotional trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life

If negligence contributed to the crash, passengers may be entitled to significant compensation under Florida maritime law and federal boating safety regulations.

Families of victims who suffer fatal injuries may pursue compensation under the Florida Wrongful Death Act.

Boating accidents require rapid investigation because evidence can disappear quickly. Vessel damage may be repaired, witnesses may disperse, and water conditions change rapidly.

A qualified maritime injury attorney can:

• Conduct an independent investigation
• Secure photographs, GPS data, and boat computer logs
• Obtain witness statements
• Determine whether alcohol, speeding, or inexperience played a role
• Review FWC reports and safety violations
• Identify all potential defendants
• Handle communication with insurance companies

We Advocate for Injured Boating Accident Victims Across Florida

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we have extensive experience representing victims of boating accidents, maritime injuries, and cruise ship claims across Florida. We purposely maintain a small caseload to provide every client with focused attention, thorough investigation, and powerful trial advocacy.

We help clients throughout Brevard County, Port Canaveral, and the surrounding coastal regions

If you or someone you love was injured in the Jetty Park boat crash, or any boating accident in Florida, contact us today. Our attorneys are available to review your rights and guide you through your legal options.