Mother, Daughter Die in Parasailing Accident
July 16, 2001
Lisabeth Bailey-Straney, 37, and her 13 year-old-daughter Taylor Straney, were killed yesterday when the harness of their parasail broke, plunging them over 20 stories into the Gulf of Mexico. The two landed in thigh deep water where onlookers pulled them to the beach.
Witnesses say that the accident occurred as a storm was approaching the Fort Myers, Florida beach. According to safety experts, high winds often coincide with parasailing accidents. Initial reports indicate that the boat operator was trying to reel the pair back onboard when high winds hit and the harness broke.
The parasailing industry generates revenue exceeding $250 million annually, yet safety advocates tell InjuryBoard.com that there is little State or Federal oversight of the industry.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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