Warm weather and open water bring people out to fish, cruise, and enjoy life on the lake or bay. But boating isn’t always safe—especially when people ignore the rules. Across Brazoria County, we’ve seen serious injuries and even deaths from boat crashes, jet ski collisions, and careless operators. These aren’t just accidents. They’re often the result of bad decisions.
Texas has thousands of miles of waterways. Popular spots like Chocolate Bayou, Bastrop Bayou, and parts of the Gulf near Freeport draw big crowds each summer. Add alcohol, high speeds, and inexperience, and the water turns dangerous fast. Boats capsize. Jet skis slam into docks. Swimmers get hit. Lives change in seconds.
We’ve seen victims suffer broken bones, brain injuries, spine damage, and deep cuts from propellers. Some people drown after being thrown into the water without a life jacket. Others are hurt when rental companies fail to give proper instructions or safety gear. In some cases, boats or jet skis have design flaws or mechanical issues that should have been fixed.
Every boat operator has a duty to follow Texas boating laws. That means keeping a safe speed, watching for other boats, and never drinking while operating a watercraft. It also means checking that all safety equipment—like life vests, lights, and radios—is ready and working. When someone chooses to act recklessly, they can be held responsible.
Rental companies can be at fault too. If they let underage or untrained people rent powerful jet skis, or if they skip safety briefings just to move fast, they may be liable for what happens. Even manufacturers can be responsible if the boat or jet ski had a defect that made it unsafe.
After a boating crash, medical bills add up quickly. Many victims need surgeries, rehab, and months off work. Some can’t return to the life they had before. That’s where a personal injury claim comes in. You may be able to recover damages for hospital care, lost income, pain, and emotional suffering. Families who lose a loved one can pursue a wrongful death claim.
But boating cases aren’t always easy. The person who caused the crash may try to blame you. Rental companies may hide documents. Witnesses may disappear. That’s why it’s important to act quickly. The sooner the facts are gathered, the stronger your case becomes.
If you or someone you care about was hurt in a boating or jet ski accident near Freeport, Surfside Beach, or anywhere in Brazoria County, we can help. We’ll dig into the details, find out what went wrong, and fight to hold the right people accountable. These injuries are serious—and so is your right to recover.
Call Hildebrand & Wilson, LLC at (281) 557-6406 or contact us here to schedule a free consultation. You deserve answers, and we’re ready to help.