On October 14, 2012 Operator was operating vessel (FL8080HT) on the St. John's River between Highbanks Marina and Iron Bend.  Just shortly prior to 1730 hours, Operator was heading South on the St. John's River in an area known as "Iron Bend".  It is a stretch of the river that requires somewhat of a sharp turn (right hand turn in this case).  Operator explained to me that as he was going around the bend, making the right hand turn. He went to straighten the wheel back out (to continue down the river), but when he did, the vessel kept going in the direction of travel (to the right), and that he had lost the ability to steer. Operator tried putting the throttle in reverse, however, by that time it was too late. The vessel ran aground on the shore and was wedged between two trees. A good samaritan with a vessel nearby rushed over to help. One individual was treated by EMS with basic first aid, while the other injured individual refused treatment.  All four individuals were taken back to Lemon Bluff Boat Ramp (closest boat ramp to collision site).  

During my investigation, I determined that mechanical failure (steering) was the primary cause of the collision.  Operator was operating his vessel at a reasonable speed (approximately 25mph), therefore I do not believe speed was a factor in this case.  Based on my observations and investigation, I do not believe alcohol or impairment of the operator was a contributor to the collision.

UNINCORPORATED                