Amusement Park Injuries
From State Fair to Six Flags, amusement parks will be at the top of most people’s to-do lists for this summer. But, nothing turns a fun day of food and roller coasters bad faster than a preventable accident or injury. According to a study conducted by the Center for Injury Research and Policy, rides injure more than 4,400 children each year. And it’s not the big rides that you need to worry about. These rides typically include carousels, roller coasters, bumper cars, mini trains and kiddy rides at parks, fairs, restaurants and shopping malls.
There are many ways that injuries can occur at an amusement park. A ride can malfunction, a ride operator can make a mistake, or you may be struck by a flying object during your visit to the park; these are just a few examples. Any of these things can result in serious or even fatal injuries. However, the most common types of amusement park accidents are falls. Falls typically occur when:
- A trip hazard is on the ground.
- The ground is slippery.
- The ride lacks properly working restraints.
- The way to get on and off the ride is unsafe.
The most common injuries from amusement park rides tend to be soft tissue injuries, strains and sprains, fractures and concussions. Surveys of injuries sustained at amusement parks state that the most dangerous rides are carousels, roller coasters, and bumper cars. As children experience the highest percentage of injuries at amusement parks, keep these tips in mind to help keep children safe on amusement rides:
- Pay attention to the rules. Follow all age, height, weight and health restrictions.
- Follow the operator’s instructions while getting on and off the ride.
- Use safety equipment such as seat belts and safety bars. Avoid rides with missing or damaged safety equipment.
- Avoid rides with hard, unpadded seats.
- Keep hands and feet inside the ride.
- Do not let your child on the ride if he or she is too young to follow the rules.
- Trust your instincts. If you are concerned about the safety of a ride, choose another activity.
Accidents happen, but if there is something the amusement park or ride manufacturer could have done to prevent an injury and failed to do so, it is a good idea to speak with a personal injury attorney. Your lawyer will be able to tell you if the park, mall or ride owner is at fault. The attorney may also be able to help you get compensation for your child’s injury. To learn more, please call 800-800-5678 or start a live chat anytime at hupy.com.
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