Vessel 1 approached Vessel 2 on plane from the sternside of Vessel 2 near a hazard buoy on the Maumee River; Vessel 2 was drifting at the time of the incident.  In trying to avoid an impending collision, the rear starboard side of Vessel 1 then struck Vessel 2 on the rear port fiberglass area of Vessel 2.  Just prior to the collision, the Operator of Vessel 2 extended his leg to try to stop the collision, but the resulting force ejected him from Vessel 2.  Another Occupant on board Vessel 2 was also ejected from Vessel 2 as a result of the collision.  The Operator of Vessel 1 was also ejected as a result of the colision, striking Vessel 2 resulting in slight injury and additional damage to the steering housing of Vessel 2.

Operator Inexperience was listed as the primary contributing factor based on the fact that the Operator of Vessel 1 had very little experience with this type of watercraft.
Grand Rapids                  