gotandem wrote: ↑Tue Dec 19, 2017 7:57 pm
This statement is wrong because Ryan forgets that in order for it to cost more in claims, we have to have more occurrences of tandem accidents. Of course instruction and tandem flying for money has the potential to cost us more. But are we really getting those claims? We don't know because Mark and Tim sit on that information and guard it well.
First, yes- we really are getting those claims. Unfortunately, even after people aknowledge that hang gliding and paragliding are dangerous activities, there is an expectation that their instructor will keep them safe.
Ummm, hello... I just told you it's dangerous... if I could make it safe instead, I wouldn't tell you it's dangerous! Still, something goes awry... or someone even THINKS something went awry... and they file suit. Doesn't mean they have a solid case, or even a chance in hell of winning... it's cheaper to settle than litigate and our previous insurance provider LOVED to settle claims rather than take it to court.
Second, Mark and Tim don't sit on or guard the lawsuit information THAT well... there are details about cases out there. Some general details have been super well publicized to all USHPA members: Hitting power lines, and having non-waivered spectators get hurt. Remember when that was emailed out to everyone?
That probably doesn't mean there were dozens of power line accidents and lawsuits... it might only mean there was one or two REALLY COSTLY occurances. Which is kind of the whole point... it is not about if USHPA-Certified Tandem Instructors are having many accidents, the *chance* for an accident is there every tandem flight. And, if or when a tandem accident does occur (using tandem as an example, same goes for training lessons) the *chance* of a lawsuit is far greater than if it were just a solo free-flyer. So, just ONE accident can be extremely costly... and I don't think it is a secret that occasionally and unfortunately, there have been accidents... and since this is a dangerous activity, there is pretty much guaranteed to be future accidents as well. Have there been claims? You betcha, and no question. Will there be future claims? Let's hope not... but who can know?! If we knew, we wouldn't need INSURANCE!
Shut up and fly.