In Florida, parasailing accidents are all too common – both for tourists and residents. While some parasailing accidents are not directly someone’s fault, other accidents are the result of negligence, equipment failure, or even greed. Here are just a few things that can go wrong during a parasailing adventure:
- The parasailing equipment, such as the boat, the towline, harness, or the sail malfunctions.
- The parasailing company or operator is not properly licensed.
- The parasailing company does not have a properly trained staff.
- The parasailing staff does not complete safety procedures or does not respond correctly in the case of an emergency.
- The parasail is not properly monitored.
- The parasailing staff ignores dangerous weather conditions or weather warnings.
- The parasailing company operates in dangerous proximity to other vessels, beaches, or structures.
- The parasailing company does not adequately brief passengers on the dangers of parasailing, parasailing safety, or proper parasailing technique.
Parasailing should be a fun and safe activity, but parasailing companies that cut corners or disregard the safety of their customers can make the popular beachside pastime into a dangerous and even deadly trip.
A recent example of gross neglect occurred on July 1, 2013 in Panama City Beach, Florida when my client Alexis Fairchild and her friend Sidney Good decided to go parasailing in tandem. During their excursion, they were flung into the side of two buildings and hit a power line before hitting a parked car on the ground.
Both teens sustained head trauma and severe lacerations. Alexis had to undergo surgery on her spine shortly after the accident to repair her extensive injuries.
We are petitioning our state's legislature to enact Senator Maria Sachs' bill (cited as the "White-Miskell Act") which enforces commercial parasailing operators in Florida to meet certain safety requirements, maintain minimum insurance coverage, and a valid license.
Please help us protect Florida's recreational watersports and the many reputable and responsible parasailing companies along our shorelines by signing this petition. Your signature will also tell our government that you will not stand for injuries and deaths that could have been prevented with minimal safety standards.
