Amusement and theme parks are popular destinations for family fun because they offer a wide array of thrilling rides, shows, games, and live performances.
While most people expect to be entertained at a theme park, there are risks of an accident or injury on a ride or a slip or fall. Visitors should exercise caution and take preventive measures to avoid such risks.
Accidents and Injuries at Theme Parks
Amusement park regulation varies by city and state. The Oklahoma Department of Labor’s Safety Standards Division licenses, regulates, and inspects amusement and water park rides within the state. Available accident and injury data is self-reported by the amusement and theme parks.
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 437 amusement and theme parks exist in the United States. In the most recent annual survey for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the NSC reported 1,390 injuries that occurred in 2022, of which 19% were severe.
Causes of Injuries at Theme Parks
Multiple factors can contribute to an injury to a guest at a theme park. These factors can be ride-related or due to the individual’s behavior.
According to data from the IAPPA, the chance of suffering a severe injury on a ride in an amusement park in the U.S. is 1 in 15.5 million rides taken. However, 37% of accidents and injuries are due to mechanical failures, improper ride operation, inadequate restraints, or passengers’ failing to follow safety instructions.
The majority, or 66%, of injuries at theme parks are due to slips and falls or inappropriate visitor behavior on the park premises. An amusement or theme park attracts high visitor traffic. Overcrowding and congestion can increase the likelihood of a slip-and-fall accident.
An injury can occur due to:
- Defective, improperly maintained, or improperly operated rides
- Lack of crowd control measures
- Wet surfaces near water rides
- Hazardous areas due to spilled food or beverages
- Cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces, especially when wet
- Inadequately lit park areas during evening hours
Park management should ensure regular inspection, prompt repairs, and maintenance for all rides and premise areas. Clear signage and warnings should alert visitors to possible hazards. Finally, park owners and managers should create and implement crowd control measures to keep visitors safe on busy days.
Liability in a Slip and Fall Theme Park Accident
Park officials must keep the premises safe for park guests. This responsibility includes maintaining stairs, handrails, walkways, and other surfaces and fixtures so they are free of substances and dangers that could injure their guests. If the park fails to do so, you may be entitled to sue for the injuries their negligence caused.
Proving negligence in a theme park accident is complicated. Many amusement and theme parks include a disclaimer in their ticket or have you sign a waiver upon entering the park saying you cannot hold the park liable for an injury on their premises.
However, such a waiver does not excuse them from negligence. Oklahoma is a comparative negligence state. If you were responsible for any portion of your injury at the theme park, the value of your injury claim would decrease proportionately.
An Oklahoma slip and fall injury attorney can help evaluate your injury claim by working with medical personnel and investigators to gather evidence for your case.
Tips for Visitors to Minimize Risks at a Theme Park
While amusement and theme parks are responsible for ensuring visitor safety, visitors must be vigilant and act responsibly.
Ride Safety
- Always follow each ride’s posted height, weight, age, and health restrictions.
- Follow instructions given by operators.
- Keep your arms, hands, legs, and feet inside the ride.
- Wear the provided ride seatbelts and ensure safety restraints are properly secured.
- If you are worried about the ride or see something that needs to be corrected, inform the operator or get off the ride.
Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents
- Wear appropriate footwear, such as closed-toe or non-slip shoes.
- Pay attention to posted warnings and instructions provided by the park.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid running in crowded areas.
Manage Heat-related Risks
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
Amusement and theme parks are places for fun and entertainment. However, slip and fall accidents can occur, leaving you or a loved one with severe injuries.
If you or a loved one are injured at an Oklahoma amusement park, you should consult an experienced law firm who can help you build a solid claim, guide you through the legal process, and help you seek compensation for your injuries.
Contact an Oklahoma City slip and fall injury attorney at Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers today for a free case consultation if you’re injured through no fault of your own at a theme park in the Sooner State.
