Father Remembers his Daughter -- and Urges Stricter Safety Measures -- on One-year Anniversary of Fatal Long Island Boating Accident

MINEOLA, N.Y., July 3, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Paul Gaines, father of the late Victoria Gaines, 7, issued through the family's attorney the following statement on the one-year-anniversary of the fatal 4th of July Long Island Sound boating accident that claimed his daughter's life.

"It has been a long and difficult year for us.  This is a time of reflection for all to remember Victoria Gaines, my beautiful daughter, whose life was senselessly and needlessly lost last 4th of July.   I just hope that Victoria's memory can serve as a reminder to all motorboat owners and operators to be more cautious, and remember that there are lives at stake every time they leave the dock.  This tragedy should be a wake up call to all legislators to enact and enforce Victoria's Law for stricter boating safety regulations.  Victoria's brother, Ryan, who survived the nightmare 4th of July cruise, joins me in wishing everyone a safe Independence Day."

Michael Della, Esq., of Gruenberg, Kelly, Della, of Ronkonkoma, New York, counsel for the Gaines family, stated, "The family and friends of Victoria Gaines continue to grieve one year after her death aboard the 34-foot 'flybridge' cabin cruiser as it was returning from a holiday fireworks cruise just off Oyster Bay. They have been courageous in pressing authorities for stricter boating regulations – including the prominent posting of permitted-capacity placards on all motorboats – that could help prevent future loss of life by avoiding dangerous overcrowding."

SOURCE Gruenberg Kelly Della