Big Settlement Approved for Myrtle Beach Lifeguard Lawsuit
Myrtle Beach, SC, has been making headlines lately for some serious business regarding beach safety. A Horry County judge has just *approved a $1 million settlement* in a wrongful death lawsuit against a local lifeguard company, and it’s stirred up quite a bit of conversation in our coastal community.
The Story Behind the Settlement
So, who’s at the heart of this? The lawsuit was filed by Phalda Morris, whose husband, Franklin Morris from Jacksonville, Florida, tragically drowned in a rip current back in 2020. This incident took place near the 16th Avenue North beach area, a spot that many of us consider a backyard of sorts. Phalda alleged that there wasn’t a lifeguard present to help save her husband at that critical moment. Instead, she claimed that the lifeguard on duty was busy selling beach equipment, juggling a dual role that rendered them unable to perform their primary duty of keeping beachgoers safe.
What Happened Next?
In light of this heartbreaking loss, Phalda filed the lawsuit in 2023, seeking accountability and justice for her husband’s death. It resonated with so many of us who enjoy spending time on our beautiful beaches, and naturally, it raised questions about safety protocols in place. The City of Myrtle Beach acted on these concerns and passed an amendment in 2023, effectively ending the dual roles of lifeguards. In other words, lifeguards will now exclusively focus on water safety, ensuring that our beaches are as safe as possible for families enjoying the sun and surf.
City Leaders Take Action
Recently, city leaders reaffirmed their stance on this issue by voting to keep our beach franchise agreements intact, *which means less confusion* about what lifeguards are supposed to be doing. This decision emphasizes that lifeguards won’t be running around selling snacks or beach rental gear while they should be monitoring the water. Instead, they’ll be there, on duty, watching over all of us.
Looking Ahead
As for the settlement itself, both Phalda and John’s Beach Service have agreed to dismiss the lawsuit with prejudice. This means that it’s officially wrapped up and cannot be brought back to court. While no amount of money can replace what Phalda has lost, it does serve as a reminder to all of us about the importance of beach safety and staying vigilant, especially when we’re out enjoying the waves.
Final Thoughts
Myrtle Beach is a place where families gather, and memories are made. It’s heartbreaking what Phalda and her family have gone through, but all of this dialogue is paving the way for a safer beach experience in the future. As we head into the sunny season, let’s remember to appreciate our lifeguards who work hard to keep us safe. Keep your eyes on the water and always stay aware of your surroundings. Here’s to making wonderful memories this summer while staying safe out there on our beautiful beaches!
