After the recent accident at Dreamworld theme park in Australia and the spat of amusement park accidents that struck the United States this summer, we thought it was important to share some information about the frequency of amusement park accidents and why you can do if you’re injured at an amusement park.
Amusement Park Accident Statistics
For the most part, amusement park rides are generally safe. Most owners and operators abide by safety laws and regularly have their rides inspected. Staff is properly trained on ride operation and safety issues.
This past summer, however, it seemed like multiple people were injured or killed in amusement park accidents. A young boy died on a waterslide in Kansas. Another was killed by an alligator at Disneyworld. Three girls fell from a Ferris wheel in Tennessee and a toddler was tossed from a roller coaster in Pennsylvania. This is the kind of news that makes a parent’s heart skip a beat. Amusement parks are supposed to be a fun diversion, a great way to celebrate life events or hang out together as a family.
CNN reports that in 2014, there were 111 serious accidents at amusement parks. According to Amusement Safety Organization, there were over 1,500 significant injuries reported at amusement parks across the nation.
Finding information about these injuries and accidents can be difficult. Statistics are not widely available and reports by the National Safety Council rely on surveys.
With over 330 million people visiting amusement parks yearly, how can we ensure we stay safe and have an enjoyable time?
Safety Precautions for Amusement Parks
Part of safely enjoying amusement park rides and diversion is being aware of your own health. Many reported injuries involve back and neck injuries. If you are prone to back pain or have previously suffered back or neck injuries, it is wise to abstain from rides that may aggravate those injuries.
Most rides provide potential riders with a disclaimer if they may cause harm to particular groups. For example, rollercoasters advise those with heart conditions or who are pregnant to skip the ride. If you know that the jerky motion of a rollercoaster is likely to bother your neck, consider skipping it and opting for a slower, smoother ride.
Most rides also provide information on the height and weight requirements to safely enjoy a ride. Don’t just take their word for it, however. If you notice that your child does not look properly secured in a seat, for example, if the harness is loose, tighten it if possible or abstain from that ride. While amusement parks work hard to provide height and weight regulations aimed at keeping riders safe, we must ultimately judge for ourselves whether our children are responsible enough and large enough to go on certain rides. Some children may be tall enough, but too thin to be properly restrained. Others may have difficulty remaining buckled thanks to curiosity. Set limits based on your knowledge of your family.
Consulting with a Myrtle Beach Amusement Park Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured at an amusement park, you may want to consider speaking with a Myrtle Beach amusement park accident lawyer.
Individuals who have sustained injuries due to an owner or operator’s negligence or recklessness have legal recourse under personal injury law. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured because of an amusement park accident, a skilled Myrtle Beach amusement park accident lawyer can help you seek compensation for your injuries.
A Myrtle Beach amusement park accident lawyer can help investigate whether the amusement park was at fault (liable) for your accident and assist you with seeking damages to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our amusement parks have a responsibility to provide a safe environment. When they don’t, they should be held responsible. Don’t get stuck with the bill for an amusement park accident. Speak to a Myrtle Beach amusement park accident lawyer today.