Tragedy strikes as a teen succumbs to injuries, while his sister fights for life after a fatal watercraft accident
In a tragic incident, a 14-year-old girl named Rachel Nisanov lost her life in a personal watercraft crash during a family trip to South Florida. The family, hailing from New York, had surprised Rachel with the trip as a graduation present.
Rachel's older sister, Aviva Nisanov, was operating the personal watercraft at the time of the crash. Aviva remains hospitalized and is sedated as of Wednesday morning, having undergone surgery the previous night.
The crash occurred when Aviva hit a dock, injuring both sisters. Rachel was taken to Broward Health Medical Center where she later died. The cause of the crash is not yet confirmed, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is still investigating the incident.
Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, the father of Rachel and Aviva, jumped into the water to help after the crash and sustained injuries. Yonah Nisanov, a family member, suggested that the teenagers may have lost control before hitting the dock during the crash.
Rachel was described as a kind person who often helped by babysitting and cleaning the house. She was excited about the prospect of riding on a personal watercraft.
The family is requesting prayers in their time of need. Yonah Nisanov expressed gratitude for the support and messages of condolence from family and friends.
Florida's Personal Watercraft Regulations
In Florida, where the accident occurred, safety regulations for operating personal watercraft (PWC) are stringent. Operators must be 18 or older, and those born on or after January 1, 1988, must complete a Florida Fish & Wildlife (FWC) approved boating safety course. Each person on board must have a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket, and vessels must be registered and display a boat registration number and decal.
The Boater Freedom Act, effective as of July 1, 2025, modifies how and when authorities can check compliance but does not remove core safety requirements. Operators should always check for any local ordinances affecting PWCs, such as special speed zones or designated PWC areas.
Florida does not legally require PWC insurance, though it is strongly recommended. The family from New York rented the personal watercrafts for their cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway.
The recent enforcement restrictions under the Boater Freedom Act modify how and when authorities can check compliance but do not remove core safety requirements. Operators should always be mindful of these regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the waterways.
- Despite Florida's stringent safety regulations for personal watercraft (PWC) operations, which include mandatory age limits and completion of a boating safety course, the cause of Rachel Nisanov's tragic accident remains under investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
- Mental health support may be a concern for the Nisanov family, as they cope with the recent car-accident-related loss of their daughter Rachel and the ongoing hospitalization of her sister Aviva, who was operating the PWC at the time of the crash.
- General news outlets reported on the tragic incident, detailing how the family vacation to South Florida took an unfortunate turn, leading to the death of Rachel Nisanov and injuries to others, including their father, Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov.
- As the family from New York requests prayers during this difficult time, local fire departments rush to respond to various emergencies, including fires and accidents, providing essential services to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
- To advocate for family health and mental health, parents may want to consider education and activities focused on healthy lifestyles, such as encouraging active transportation like biking or walking, and fostering open communication about challenges and emotions to promote overall well-being, including both physical and mental health.
