For one Florida mother, parasailing regulation is long overdue – Legislature – MiamiHerald.com. Injuries sustained by tourist while on vacation in Florida can be devastating. Vacation is a time treasured all year by many and it is one in which we all suspend our everyday thinking for a more relaxed approach to life. Unfortunately, there are a minority of businesses that take advantage of this lassiez-faire mentality and some times it can result in serious injury or death.
First, let it first be stated that most parasail companies are comprised of good people who care about the safety of its customers and pride themselves in providing an excellent experience. Like nearly everything, however, there are a fair number parasail businesses that operate seasonally, have not real ties to the community and basically are running on a shoestring budget. These few bad companies have historically cut corners from everything involved in parasailing from the maintenance of use of the vessels used, failure to train parasail employees, failing to maintain or replace the parachute line and/or the failure to purchase insurance for injuries to their customers.
Thankfully, the Florida legislature has passed, much over due, legislation that will provide some “common sense” protections over parasail businesses. These laws will make sure that companies do not send customers up when the wind is over 20 mph or gusting over 25 mph (common sense to most but not all). The law also requires that these companies carry a minimum of $1 million dollars per customer in liability coverage. (Again, an assumption you would think for companies pulling human beings on a line over 300 feet in the air).
Zarzaur Law, P.A. has handled parasail cases and other watersport injury cases. “All of those cases were “fly by the seat of your pants” companies that because of this law would not be able to start such a business. We are happy that this law is been passed in Florida. My hope is that these changes will help prevent further injuries or deaths by those few irresponsible businesses that place profits over safety”, says Joe Zarzaur.
A case Mr. Zarzaur handled was one of 23 other parasail injuries cited by the proponents of this new law in urging its passing. Mr. Zarzaur said that his case was settled for a confidential amount but that it involved the loss of an eye when old and worn out line was being used and it snapped during a flight and blinded the rider. “Reckless folks will be deterred from even engaging in this risky business and that is a good thing for community safety” Zarzaur said.