Amusement Parks Can Be Deadly, Be Prepared to Avoid Accidents

From Dollywood to Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park, families throughout Tennessee flock to amusement parks during the summer. Some are looking for an adrenaline rush while others travel to these destinations with the intent of making family memories that will last a lifetime. Whatever the reason for the visit, spending some time at an amusement park can make for a fun day.

Generally, these parks offer a safe form of entertainment. In fact, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions estimates that the chances of being injured at a park are one in 24 million. Even less likely is the chance of being killed, at one in 750 million. Although the parks are often safe, accidents are not unheard of. Just recently a Six Flags park in Texas experienced a tragic accident. In that accident, a woman was riding a rollercoaster when she somehow slipped out of her seat. The woman later died from injuries she received from the fall.

This tragic accident serves as a reminder that those enjoying amusement parks should take a moment to make sure they are safe. If you are boarding a ride and are concerned the belt or latching device is not working properly, ask an attendant. If the attendant does not appear to take your concerns seriously, you can choose not to ride.

The tragic accident in Texas is under investigation. Some witnesses claim the victim voiced concern about the latching mechanism in her seat. If this is the case, the park could be liable to the woman’s family for the victim’s wrongful death.

Source: ABC News, “Six Flags Roller Coaster Accident Witness Says Victim Question Whether She Was Secured,” Clayton Sandell, July 22, 2013

Denise S. Terry

Attorney Denise Terry has a passion for justice and serving others that was instilled in her from a very young age. As a small child she would go to her Father, Charles Terry’s Law office on Saturday mornings and listen as he worked and met with his clients. Thus, her love affair with the law began.