Parasailing in South Carolina is largely unregulated. The Post and Courier reports, “Parasailing doesn’t fall under the jurisdiction of any public authority in South Carolina: It is not overseen by the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (which inspects amusement rides), nor by the Department of Natural Resources, which registers and titles watercraft.”
The U.S. Coast Guard doesn’t have jurisdiction over parasailing either, though it does issue licenses for boat captains that ferry paying customers.
What is Parasailing?
Picture this: You’re high above the sparkling waters, soaring like a bird, with the wind in your hair and an exhilarating view below. That’s the thrill of parasailing! It’s a water activity that involves being harnessed to a parachute while a speedboat pulls you through the sky. But wait, is it all fun and games? Not quite.
Parasailing in South Carolina: The Dark Side
Did you know that parasailing in South Carolina has faced some serious accidents? In fact, an eye-opening article by The Post and Courier reported a tragic incident involving a man who lost both his legs after a parasailing mishap. The report highlights a critical concern: the lack of strict regulations surrounding parasailing operations in The Palmetto State.
Henry Owens was in the midst of transferring from the parasailing vessel to a banana boat (a long yellow raft) when he fell into the water and his legs got caught in the propellers of the parasailing vessel. The Post and Courier reports that Owens said, “I remember going underneath. The propellers were there. I was trying to work my way up and my legs got caught in the propellers.”
Owens was put into a medically induced coma for two days. Afterward, both of his legs had to be amputated above the knee.
The Coast Guard
The Coast Guard inspects some watercraft annually. But the boat involved in the Myrtle Beach incident was small enough that it did not have to be inspected, according to Lt. J.B. Zorn, spokesperson for the Charleston sector of the Coast Guard.
Per Zorn, inspection is not required for boats carrying less than six people. (WPDE.com)
Another Parasailing Accident in SC
Another Myrtle Beach customer fractured a hip in the same process of transferring from the parasailing boat to a banana boat.
Parasailing in South Carolina
Matthew Dvorak of the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) said parasailing has been unregulated in most of the United States until a few years ago after video captured several high-profile accidents. At that time, best practices were drafted by members of the industry.
The Myrtle Beach Sun News reports, “The parasailing industry remains largely unregulated in South Carolina as other states step up regulations in the wake of several high-profile accidents that were caught on video.”
The Coast Guard has also put pressure on the WSIA. Dvorak said, “It got to the point where they said, ‘You either do this, or we’ll do it for you.’”(PostandCourier.com)
These best practices guidelines, which mostly refer to what to do in bad weather and poor water conditions, “served as a basis for legislation that since have passed in several states, including Florida,” per Dvorak (PostandCourier.com). Since the WSIA wrote these best practices, safety statistics have dramatically improved.
Because of inadequate regulations of the parasailing industry in South Carolina, there are no legal requirements as to “what conditions they may operate in, the quality of their equipment or how much insurance they should carry.” (PostandCourier.com)
Members of the South Carolina industry argue that inspections by insurers do provide some safeguards for their businesses. Members say they self-regulate to avoid accidents like customers who are aloft floating away or colliding with buildings.
However, “the process of transferring a customer from one craft to another in open water is now being examined by the main parasailing industry group. That transfer is necessary in locations like the Grand Strand, where a long stretch of popular beach means boats can’t pick up customers on the shore.” (PostandCourier.com)
Staying Safe while Parasailing
Parasailing might seem like a breeze, but safety should never be taken lightly. It’s important to address the lack of regulations in South Carolina to prevent accidents like the one mentioned earlier. If you’re itching to experience the thrill of parasailing, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose reputable operators: Research and opt for operators with a proven track record of safety. Those that operate from an established location (not a beach front) are safer. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their equipment, experience, and safety measures.
- Check the weather: Wind and weather conditions play a significant role in parasailing safety. Don’t fly in fog, rain, or an approaching storm. If the weather looks questionable, it’s better to postpone your adventure for another day.
- Release forms: The operator should explain all of the risks, not just hand the release forms to you to sign.
- Visual inspection: The boat should be well-maintained, not old and weathered. Be sure the tow rope does NOT look worn or frayed. “This is your lifeline!”
- Listen carefully to safety briefing: Pay close attention to the instructions provided by the crew. Understanding how to properly use the equipment and what to do in case of an emergency can make a big difference. “Warning: If you do not receive a safety briefing do NOT parasail with that operator!”
- Wear safety gear: Just like wearing a helmet while biking, wearing the right safety gear while parasailing is a must. Make sure your harness and other equipment are in good condition.
- Trust your gut: If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Your safety is the top priority, so don’t hesitate to voice your concerns. (parasail.org/consumer-alerts.html)
Parasailing in South Carolina offers an incredible opportunity to experience the thrill of flying over the ocean. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the lack of regulations that has led to accidents and injuries. By raising awareness about this issue and prioritizing safety measures, we can ensure that the skies remain a safer place for everyone to enjoy this exhilarating activity.
Remember, while the wind beneath your wings can lift you to new heights, proper safety measures will keep you soaring safely.
Water Sports Accident in South Carolina? The Law Offices of David L. Hood is here to fight for you!
Here at The Law Offices of David L. Hood, we have over 30 years of experience representing injured victims in South Carolina. We offer a free initial consultation so we can listen to your story and provide candid advice about what your legal options are. If you choose to hire us, we also work on a contingent fee basis. This means you don’t pay fees or expenses unless we achieve a settlement or win your case in court.
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a water sports accident, contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood at (843) 491-6025, or fill out our brief online contact form, and we’ll get in touch to schedule your free consultation. We know an accident can turn a person’s life upside-down, but we’re here to support you and guide you at every step in your journey toward justice and healing.
