Amusement Park Rides Can Fail. Here’s What You Should Do Next
Millions of people worldwide visit Central Florida every year to visit one of our multiple amusement parks. From riding roller coasters to eating churros, visiting a theme park should be a fun experience. Guests should not feel an immediate threat of danger. However, two teens in late March went through a frightening experience at Old Town in Kissimmee. The two were suspended about 40 feet in the air after a slingshot ride malfunctioned.
Fortunately, there were no injuries. Even if there were injuries, it might have been difficult for the victims to pursue compensation. That is because the park took all measures to keep the ride safe, including routine inspections. Furthermore, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services closed all slingshot rides in Central Florida while the ride manufacturer and bureau conducted a thorough investigation.
In general, pursuing financial compensation for accident-related expenses after a theme park injury is difficult, and you will need the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney.
What to Do after Sustaining an Injury at a Florida Theme Park
If you sustained injuries at an amusement park in Central Florida, there are a few steps you must take. These steps can help your recovery and injury if you decide to pursue compensation.
- Report and document the accident. First, you must report your accident and injuries to a park employee. Park officials will write a report, including the circumstances leading up to the accident. You must be honest about how the injury occurred but never make assumptions.
- Seek medical attention. Most theme parks have medical staff on-site that may treat your injuries. Conversely, they may take you to a nearby hospital. It is crucial not to deny medical care. Doing so may weaken your injury claim. The park’s insurance company will likely argue that you denied medical attention because your injuries were not as severe as you claimed. Similarly, they may also argue that denying on-site medical care or transportation to a hospital led to your conditions worsening.
If park employees do not treat you on-site or transport you to a hospital, you should still seek medical attention. Not all injuries will show symptoms right away, and you might even have internal injuries. A doctor can perform a complete check-up to diagnose and treat any injuries.
- Refuse settlement offers from the park staff. Park officials may also try to make a deal with you regarding your injuries. For example, they may provide compensation for your tickets, food, or hotel accommodations in return for you not filing a lawsuit. You should not accept any offer a park presents until you speak to an injury attorney. Quickly accepting an offer may result in you shorting yourself vital compensation for medical bills and other relevant expenses.
Who’s Liable for My Theme Park Injury?
While guests are on theme park property, owners must prevent dangerous conditions on the premises. When they fail to keep their property safe or provide notice of hazardous conditions, they may be responsible for any accidents and injuries. However, a ride manufacturer may also be liable for injuries. If the manufacturer knew of a defective ride part but failed to notify the theme park, you might be able to pursue a claim against them. In addition, you may be able to file a claim against the park if the manufacturer notified them of the danger but did not address the issue. An experienced Orlando premises liability attorney can further explain the duties and responsibilities of theme park owners and operators.
How to Keep Yourself Safe at Orlando Amusement Parks
One of the most straightforward ways to keep yourself safe at Orlando amusement parks is always to follow the park’s rules. That includes keeping your arms and legs inside ride vehicles and following ride restrictions, such as height, mobility, or health requirements. Some rides have unexpected twists and turns, which may cause injury if you stick your arms outside the vehicle. In case of a ride evacuation, riders may have to exit through emergency routes, including climbing ladders or stairs.
In addition to following all rules, you should stay hydrated throughout the day. Florida is hot, and it’s common to see temperatures in the high 90s for much of the year. Drinking plenty of water during the day may prevent dehydration, heat stroke, or heat exhaustion. Additionally, apply sunscreen and reapply every two hours.
Speak to a Skilled Theme Park Attorney in Florida
If you sustained injuries at Disney World, Universal, SeaWorld, or another amusement park in Central Florida, contact the theme park injury attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm. We will launch a thorough investigation to determine whether the park was negligent in causing your injuries or illness. If they were, we will guide you through the claims process and pursue compensation on your behalf. Call or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.
