Personal watercraft have no braking mechanism; they coast to a stop and, while coasting, there is no turning ability
As stated in the owner’s safety manual of one PWC manufacturer, “Remember, releasing the throttle completely eliminates the ability to steer the watercraft.” This operating characteristic is likely to be counterintuitive to novice operators, particularly in situations of potential collision.
When a new rider realizes there is danger of hitting another vessel or object, the operator’s typical response based on experience with other motor vehicles is to first let off the throttle and then attempt to steer away from the hazard. But closing off the throttle leaves the vessel coasting in the original direction based on the effects of momentum, and without throttle there is very limited steering control.
Personal watercraft have no braking mechanism; they coast to a stop and, while coasting, there is no turning ability. Executing a controlled-speed turn is the correct response to avoid a collision, but to a new operator this may feel like speeding toward a hazard.
