Parasailing Accident Injures 2 Tourists in Panama City, Florida

Tragically, two more people have been seriously injured while parasailing at Panama City Beach, Florida. On July 1, 2013, 2 young women visiting from Indiana were the victims of the most recent accident involving the ride operator, Aquatic Adventures. Aquatic Adventures is currently being sued by a Panama City attorney, Wes Pittman, for injuries to two other women in 2008 in strikingly similar circumstances. Parasailing is just one of the many recreational activities that draws both tourists and residents to Panama City Beach. The popular activity can provide both an exhilarating thrill and a unique view of our beautiful region, but it is dangerous when provided by companies that fail to properly monitor the weather and check their equipment. Aquatic Adventures, owned by Jeff Jones, is no stranger to controversy.

A May 2013 bill would have prevented parasail operators from operating within 1,800 feet of the shore, required boat operators to have a radio on board to monitor weather conditions, and would have prohibited parasailing during sustained winds of more than 20 mph, in rainy conditions and in times of poor visibility.

Representing Victims of Recreational Injuries in Panama City

Parasailing ride operators with good safety records generally conduct thorough safety checks of their equipment, obtain weather forecasts in advance of operations, and carefully monitor weather patterns during operating hours. Others often fail to adhere to those standards, sometimes repetitively, as a result of which innocent passengers are injured or killed. Victims injured in parasailing or other recreational accidents in Florida should contact legal counsel. While statutory law and regulations can help support a civil injury claim, they are not essential to recovery.

While parasail ride operators commonly require passengers to sign advance waivers of liability, such waivers are of questionable legal validity and are often deemed by courts to be invalid. If faulty equipment, poor maintenance, or other forms of negligence contributed to an injury you sustained, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact our Panama City injury attorney to arrange a free consultation to discuss your accident, your injuries, and your potential legal claim.