The White-Miskell Act – Parasailing Law

The Tennessean reports that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its preliminary investigation report regarding a flight from Smyrna, Tennessee, bound for Palm Beach International Airport. Seven church leaders from a congregation in Brentwood died in the crash that happened on May 29 when the 1982 Cessna 501 went down into the waters of...

On May 1, 2014 the Florida legislature voted in favor of SB 320: Commercial and Recreational Water Activities, commonly known as the White-Miskell Act. After years of legislative review and supportive action, the work of Florida Senator Maria Sachs and thousands of Floridians has paid off in bringing this bill to the Governor’s desk. Now,...

Making safety a priority is essential when enjoying Florida’s warm weather. Otherwise, a fun summer activity could quickly turn into an accident that can cause serious injuries ranging from broken bones to paralysis. Summer marks the onset of the state’s rainy season. The risk of car crashes increases with frequent and heavy downpours. Sudden showers...

It has been nearly seven years since Amber May White was killed in a tragic parasailing accident. Amber’s death began a call for better regulation of the parasailing industry, and after several House and Senate hearings, bill revisions, and petition signatures, the parasailing law known as the White-Miskell Act – which Chalik & Chalik adamantly...

Whether you’re soaring over the waters off Fort Lauderdale Beach or floating gently along the shores of the Florida Keys, parasailing is a fun and exciting activity nearly anyone can enjoy. Before you strap into your harness, there are questions to ask and steps to take to ensure your whole family has a safe and...

Florida lawmakers have in the past failed to pass basic safety measures designed to reduce parasailing injuries and deaths. In the 2014 session, they will have another opportunity to approve minimum safety regulations on one of the state’s most popular – and presently, dangerous – tourist activities. Florida Sen. Maria Sachs (D-Delray Beach) announced this...

As of June 2014, the White-Miskell Act is law in Florida. With Governor Scott’s signature, it feels as if a hard fought battle has finally been won. We didn’t get everything we wanted or need, but after seven years of trying, Florida citizens at least have some minimal protection against those parasailing operators who put...

You may be a good boater or seaman by day, but nighttime excursions on the water are a whole new ball game. Low light conditions and drastically reduced visibility increases risks of  boat accidents. It’s important to be fully trained and prepared and follow basic safety rules when you hit the water for some nighttime...

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a 33-page report regarding a special investigation conducted by the board concerning the safety of the parasailing industry. The NTSB conducted eight investigations across the U.S. involving parasailers who were seriously injured or killed. Four of the incidents occurred in Florida, including the accident where our client, Alexis...

A speedboat guiding parasailers up and down the beach is as common a sight in Florida as the fishing boats that patrol the coastal waters. Unfortunately, the fish in the ocean enjoy many more protections than the people who climb aboard one of Florida’s more than 100 unregulated parasailing vessels. Parasailing – a popular tourist...