Based on the evidence collected and interviews conducted the following was determined:

On July 28, 2012 Operator1 and Operator2 were operating PWC's on Lake Howell.  At approximately 1700 hours Operator1 and Operator2 found themselves to be in a crossing situation approximately 150 yards from the western shore (near Lake Howell Arms condos).  Operator1 struck Operator2 (operator of V2) and (occupant of V2) on their starboard side causing Operator2 and v2 occupant to be ejected from the vessel.  A good samaritan with a vessel nearby rushed over to help, taking the injured persons back to shore where they were transported to the hospital.

Operator1 (operator of V1) was issued a notice to appear for reckless operation of a vessel resulting in an accident with injuries based on violation of five different navigational rules.  Operator2 (operator of V2) was issued an infraction for not having the required boating safety identification card.  


V2 occupant:  The evening of the incident, she was admitted to Florida Hospital (Altamonte) with a laceration to back of head.  She received several staples to close that laceration.  While in the hospital she was also diagnosed with a small laceration to her lung.  She was transferred to Florida Hospital (South) where it was determined that she did not need surgery because the laceration was very small.  She was placed on oxygen, the laceration healed, and she was discharged on Monday (July 30th).  On Friday (August 3rd), the staples in her head were removed by her primary care physician.; Operator2  The evening of the incident, she was admitted to Florida Hospital (Altamonte) with a broken clavicle, and it was noted that she lost consciousness during the collision.  A “CAT Scan” was conducted and revealed no concussion.  She was discharged that night.  On Sunday evening (July 29th) she was re-admitted due to headaches and vomiting, which are common symptoms of a concussion.  She was transferred to Florida Hospital (South) where she was treated for a concussion.  She was discharged on Thursday (August 2nd).

CASSELBERRY                   