Maritime Accident News

Three Florida Speed Boat Racers Killed in Three Days, but Race Goes On

Some disturbing news has powerboat racing fans the globe over concerned, frustrated, and grieving after a Florida boating accident. Last Wednesday, two men, Robert Morgan of Sunrise Beach, Missouri, and Jeffrey Tillman of Kaiser, Missouri, died when their catamaran crashed in Key West Harbor. Just three days later, another catamaran boater, 59-year-old Joey Gratton of Sarasota, Florida, died when his boat flipped over twice during the final lap of a race.

Although racing officials noted that it had been 16 years since anyone had been killed the Key West World Championship, organizers decided to continue the race, per the advice of Super Boat International president, John Carbonell. On Sunday, the final day of racing, two more powerboat competitors were hurt. Fortunately, no one appears to have died in this latest accident. However, the injured racers from New Jersey had to be transported to a Miami hospital by helicopter for possible traumatic brain injuries or other head injuries.

What lessons can the greater boating community learn from the disasters?

First of all, it is important to remember that this event was a powerboat racing event. It was not a few people taking leisurely outings in their yachts. It was a highly competitive event, and racers tested both their own limits and the limits of their boats. On the other hand, the serious nature of the accidents should give racing event organizers pause and possibly inspire some changes to prevent similar problems in the future. Boaters in both sport and leisure can learn from this event that boating can be dangerous and sometimes even fatal.

We would like to convey our deepest condolences to the families of all the deceased and injured in these tragic accidents. For help with a Florida boating accident, connect with the powerful lawyers at Vujasinovic & Beckcom or call (877) 724-7800.

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