Vessel 1 (V1) - 2010, 10'6" Fiberglass Yamaha VX1100 PWC - 400cc Yamaha Inboard Water Jet Engine 

On 05/03/2013, at about 5:14 p.m. Law Enforcement was dispatched to a jet ski collision on Lake Tapps located in Pierce County Washington. When officers arrived at about 5:58 p.m., it was observed that V1 had collided with a dock protruding from the shoreline. V1 had been traveling west, at approximately 31-40 mph, very close to the shoreline prior to the impact. The front end of V1 was embedded into the dock and was badly damaged. V1 was so badly embedded into the dock that fire personnel had to use a chain saw to cut away part of the dock to free the vessel. The handlebars of V1 appeared to be broken and were in a position much further forward than normal. 

The dock was also badly damaged. The piers under the dock were no longer vertical and were leaning badly in the direction of the impact. The 40' x 8' solid dock was broken from the bulkhead and pushed approximately 3' off center. Split cross boards and buckled/broken deck boards - damages estimated at $10,000. 

Officers were informed that there were two people on the vessel at the time of the collision. Both victims had been transported by fire personnel for medical treatment prior to Law Enforcement's arrival. 

When questioned by Law Enforcement, neither occupant of the vessel could recall any details of the crash. occupant stated that he had been drinking prior to the accident - amount is unknown. Operator stated that he had not been drinking prior to the accident although the Officer who was questioning him could smell alcohol on his breath. 

According to hospital staff, Occupant had suffered a bilateral sub durra hematoma. When asked for clarification of the injury by Law Enforcement, they were informed that Occupant was bleeding in his brain on both sides of his head - a possible life threatening injury. 

Operator's injuries included several broken ribs on his left side, a lacerated spleen, and a fracture on his T-12 vertebrae in his back - all injures were most likely non life threatening. 

Two injuries / No fatalities. 
There was apparent alcohol involvement. 
The vessel was a total loss. Dock damages estimated at $10,000. 
Both occupants were wearing PFDs. 
The operator did have a mandatory Boater Education Card. 
There was a Rules of the Road Violation - Safe Speed
Bonney Lake