Rip tide warnings might pose legal danger

Putting up signs warning visitors of the dangerous rip currents off New Jersey’s Long Beach might seem like an obvious step. “However, Long Beach Township Attorney Richard Shackleton said there are liability issues to consider. According to the law, the town does not have to warn people about natural conditions, and if Long Beach put […]

Putting up signs warning visitors of the dangerous rip currents off New Jersey’s Long Beach might seem like an obvious step. “However, Long Beach Township Attorney Richard Shackleton said there are liability issues to consider. According to the law, the town does not have to warn people about natural conditions, and if Long Beach put up a sign and a jury found its warnings to be inadequate, the town could possibly be found liable for a drowning or injury. Having no signs, he said, reduces the risk of being sued.” (Brian Prince, “Warning: Rip tide alerts not islandwide”, Asbury Park (N.J.) Press, Jun. 15). See Jun. 30, 2004 (similar).

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