A 2017, 11.5 foot Sea Doo PWC was traveling south bound between the two spans of the Causeway Bridges at speed estimated by the operator as around 20mph. Operator states he was traveling behind approximately 20-30 feet and slightly to the right of another jet ski when that PWC made a quick and unexpected turn to the right towards the south bound span to travel under it, putting that vessel directly in his path. 

Operator stated that he immediately turned right to avoid collision with the other vessel and ran into one of the bridge pilings at a speed he estimated around 15mph. The PWC incurred damage to the bow area fiberglass, and broke the handle bars from the impact, taking on water and eventually sank with just the bow above water. Operator stated that neither he or the passenger were initially ejected from the PWC but disembarked when it began taking on water.

Operator and passenger were both checked by East Jefferson Hospital EMT's on scene and refused transport or treatment. Neither subject displayed any obvious signs of injury, but occupant  did say that she experienced some back pain. Both subjects were wearing PFD's at the time of  incident.  Drugs or alcohol are not suspected of causing or contributing to the incident. PWC utilized handle bar type remote steering.
LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NEW ORLEANS                   