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,...
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...
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...
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...
Just last summer, 17-year-old Alexis Fairchild and her friend Sidney Good were critically injured in Panama City, Fla. when strong winds snapped their parasail free from the tow boat. Despite the fact that between 1982 and 2012, 73 people have died and another 1,600 have been injured in parasailing accidents, the industry operates virtually unregulated. ...
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...
Due to their hard and vigilant work to push for new regulations of the parasailing industry in Florida, Jason and Debi Chalik were featured recently on the Advocate Capital Inc blog. The article summarizes how the Chalik’s first got involved in parasailing regulations, and the eventual passing of the White Miskell Act. The article goes...
Debi Chalik, founding partner of Chalik & Chalik Law Offices, was featured in the media last month when she publicly urged Gov. Rick Scott to sign new legislation that requires parasailing operators to take safety precautions and carry insurance. She was also quoted in local news coverage about the legislation, which is designed to reduce...
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...
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...