Parasail Nearly Collides with Building
July 16, 2001
Darrin Villa, Mike Knobloch and Kaleiohao Mahoe, all from Long Island, decided to take a parasailing trip during their vacation to Clearwater Beach, a resort town on Florida's west coast. After their terrifying experience, none of these seasoned New Yorkers is likely to go up in one of the contraptions again.
All three were nearly killed after their parasail broke free from its towboat and headed directly for the side of a 20 story beachfront condominium. At the last moment a gust of wind lifted the men clear of the roof. Fortunately, they were able to land safely in the Gulf of Mexico.
The investigation, which is ongoing, centers on operator error. Reports indicate that the wind at the time of the accident exceeded safe limits. As such, the boat operator may have had difficulty controlling the parasail. Parasailing in high winds is dangerous as the pressure placed on the towline can cause it to break.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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