Personal Injury Lawsuits Filed After Tragic Amusement Park Accident

Multiple personal injury lawsuits have been filed after a tragic 2011 roller coaster accident that resulted in the death of a three year old boy. The three year old boy fell from a children’s roller coaster and died from the resultant serious injuries that he sustained in the fall. The boy’s mother filed a lawsuit against the amusement park, and since then multiple personal injury lawsuits alleging emotional distress and trauma have been filed. The most recent lawsuit has been filed by two individuals who claim that they and their young children were emotionally traumatized by the incident in which they unsuccessfully tried to get the boy to sit down on the ride, and witnessed him falling from the ride. After he fell, the roller coaster ran over him, though other riders and guests tried to get the ride stopped.

The lawsuit is against the Go Bananas, and alleges that the plaintiffs suffered and continue to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression after witnessing the tragic incident. Another woman previously filed a similar lawsuit regarding this incident, also citing emotional distress as a result of witnessing the accident.

In New York, an incident occurred at a local event where inflatable bounce houses with children inside became airborne. One woman sustained serious spinal injuries and was reported to be in critical condition, and 12 other people were injured in the incident.

Amusement park injuries can range from bruises or broken bones, to whiplash, back and neck injuries, internal injuries, or even death. Some injury claims are denied because there is an inherent risk to taking part in some of these activities, and when people knowingly choose to participate in rides or other amusement park rides or activities, they do so knowing that there is some risk. Still, people should not be at risk for serious injuries or death when riding rides, and amusement parks do have the responsibility to maintain rides and keep rides and attractions safe within reason.

Owners and operators of amusement parks are legally responsible for ensuring the safety of visitors within reason. The property and attractions must be maintained and kept safe. Usually this means that if you sustain a preventable injury that the amusement park could have prevented by taking reasonable steps, you could have a personal injury case and could sue for compensation.

Amusement park owners, ride designers, manufacturers, ride operators, or concession stand owners, are among the individuals who can be held legally responsible in certain instances when harm comes to a visitor.

St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or a family member has been injured at an amusement park, contact a personal injury attorney who can assess your case and determine if someone can be legally held responsible for the injuries you sustained. Not every injury is immediately discernible. Some injuries do not present symptoms until days or possibly even weeks later. As soon as you notice symptoms, seek medical attention and contact a personal injury attorney.