Re: [Paddlewise] Nearly Fatal

>The thing with dealers is that they seem to be afraid --- and I'm afraid
they're correct in being afraid, in our lawsuit-conscious world --- that if
they provide *any* advice, other than a recommendation to join a paddling
club or read a book and become aware of what paddling's all about, that
they'll be sued for missing something or providing incorrect advice

    A couple of years ago I was talking with the proprietor of a tube rental
on a popular river in another state.  I noticed a father and son picking up
tubes and equipment for the river.  There was a sign right there with
information and requirements, including one stating that no child under the
age of 10 would be allowed to rent or use a tube.  I mentioned to the
proprietor that the boy seemed to be about 8 years old.  He said that the
father said he was 10 but he didn't believe it either.  So I asked why he
was still permitted to go.  He replied that he had to take the father's word
for it.  Should he question it, in that state it would be an instance of
"taking an interest in the welfare of a client".  That alone would triple
his insurance premium, and that would put him out of business.  So he had
little choice.

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