Yet Another Parasailing Tragedy in Florida Keys Kills Tourist

On Memorial Day weekend, Supraja Alaparthi, 33, was tragically killed, and her 7-year-old nephew, Vishant Sadat, was seriously injured in a parasailing accident near the Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys. When winds unexpectedly picked up, the boat captain reportedly cut the tow line, causing the parasail to collide with the bridge. The incident underscores the dangers of negligent parasailing operations and poor weather judgment, especially near fixed structures.

Parasailing is inherently risky and requires careful attention to weather and surroundings. Florida’s summer conditions can cause winds to change rapidly, creating hazardous conditions. Accidents often occur when parasailing operators fail to heed these changes or operate too close to fixed objects like bridges. Despite legal safety requirements, failures in judgment and training continue to make parasailing a dangerous recreational activity, especially when negligence is involved.

The Miskell-White Act, codified in Florida Statutes Section 327.02, was enacted in 2014 as the nation’s first comprehensive parasailing safety law. The legislation mandates that parasailing operators carry liability insurance, maintain equipment, and monitor weather conditions. This law was passed following advocacy by victims’ families, including those represented by Leighton Panoff Law, and aims to enforce minimum safety standards in an industry long criticized for its lack of regulation.

Yes, parasailing operators can be held liable if their negligence results in injury or death. Liability may stem from poor weather decisions, proximity to hazardous structures, faulty equipment, or a failure to follow state safety regulations. Victims or their families may file personal injury or wrongful death claims to seek compensation for losses. Legal counsel experienced in parasailing litigation, such as Leighton Panoff Law, can help navigate these complex cases.

Victims of parasailing accidents may pursue personal injury claims for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, or file wrongful death lawsuits in fatal cases. These claims often target parasailing operators, boat captains, or companies that fail to follow legal safety standards. Working with attorneys familiar with the Miskell-White Act and parasailing litigation ensures thorough investigation and accountability for negligent conduct.

Despite Florida’s parasailing safety laws, tragedies persist due to lax enforcement, inadequate training, and reckless decision-making by operators. Many incidents occur when operators disregard weather warnings or engage in unsafe practices near structures like bridges. Legal standards are only as effective as their implementation, which is why continued advocacy and litigation are necessary to drive industry accountability and reform.

Leighton Panoff Law has a nationally recognized track record in parasailing litigation. Founding attorney John Leighton helped pass Florida’s parasailing safety law after representing victims in high-profile cases like the Amber May White tragedy. The firm continues to represent clients harmed in parasailing accidents, fighting for justice and higher safety standards. Call 888.988.1774 for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been affected by a parasailing incident.