Safety Laws Lag Despite Parasailing Accidents

Not many who go parasailing know that it is less regulated than the average carnival ride and there is a higher risk of injury or fatality.

The Associated Press (AP) reports that there’s a lack of regulation at both the state and federal level when it comes to parasailing – despite 1,600 injuries and 70 deaths linked to the recreational activity over the last 30 years.

The Parasail Safety Council tracks the number of injuries and deaths all over the U.S. in parasailing incidents. It calculates the casualty rate in parasailing as one death in 90,000 rides, reports the Associated Press (AP). In contrast, data from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions calculates the risk of serious injury at an amusement park as about one in 9 million rides.

The lack of regulations means that despite the risks inherent in parasailing, there are few mandated safety rules for equipment or guidelines for taking guests up in windy weather conditions.

Florida has the nation’s highest number of parasailing operators.  Though there have been repeated efforts for new regulation, such legislation has never passed the state legislature, reports the AP.

If you or someone you know has been harmed in an accident due to a recreational activity, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you.

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