V1-Struck vessel
V2-Striking vessel

V1 approached V2 at an angle from the starboard side and crossed in front of V2. The operator of V2 did not see V1 until it was approximately 10 feet from him. Operator of V2 shut the throttle and hit V1 at an angle on the port side. Could not steer due to no thrust from water jet.

Both of the PWC were rental units from Barefoot Billie's at the Casa Marina Resort in Key West. Operator2 was the operator of V2 and there was no passenger. Operator1 was the operator of V1 with a passenger, V1 occupant. When they reached the area of Boca Chica Bayside of US Hwy 1, they were told this was an area where they could play. V2 was making "curves", and approached the vessel operated by Operator2 from the starboard side. The passenger V1 occupant said he saw the other PWC but thought it would turn to the left to avoid them. Operator2 claims he did not see the other PWC until it was within ten feet of him. He told me he shut the throttle down but continued in a straight line into the other PWC. All three people were thrown from their PWC. V1 occupant had an injury to his left knee but nothing broken. Operator1 had a broken tibia of her left leg. Neither operator was cognizant of the others presence until it was too late, and appeared to not have been looking. Both were on plane and running at excessive speed for the proximity of the vessels. Operator1 cut across the bow of Operator2 and neither were aware of the others presence until it was too late to avoid a crash. Lack of experience in operating PWC, off throttle steering and failure to maintain proper look out contributed to this crash. Both were issued Citations for citations for violation of Navigational rules resulting in an accident without serious bodily harm (per Doctor both to recover with no permanent disabilities).; OPERATOR1:Operator was diagnosed with broken Tibia. Full Recovery Expected. ; V1 OCCUPANT,:Sprain to left leg. Full recovery expected, no permanent damage.
KEY WEST