Collecting Damages for Roller Coaster Injuries
Millions of Americans visit amusement parks each year. These parks are considered great places for families to spend quality time together while enjoying the thrill of roller coasters and other rides. Although amusement parks have outstanding safety records overall, there are still thousands of roller coaster injuries each year. Amusement park accidents can result in minor to severe injuries, and in some cases, even death. Victims of roller coaster injuries in the Sugar Land, TX-area can rely on the experienced injury attorneys at Reed & Terry L.L.P., to provide legal representation as they seek compensation for their losses. Our attorneys will fight for maximum compensation covering a wide-range of damages stemming from roller coaster injuries.
Types of Roller Coaster Injuries
Roller coasters often operate at fast speeds and include sharp turns, sudden drops, and several twists. These are all characteristics that make riding a roller coaster enjoyable, but unfortunately, these thrill rides can also cause serious injuries. Although roller coasters have safety features such as seatbelts, lap bars, and over the shoulder harnesses to keep riders safe, a failure of any of these devices can cause an individual to become seriously injured. Potential injuries from an amusement park accident may include:
- Head, neck, and back injuries
- Stroke as a result of torn ligaments in the neck
- Traumatic brain injury
- Brain aneurysm
- Broken bones or torn ligaments
- Lacerations
Another real risk of roller coasters is death. Common causes of death involving roller coaster accidents include falling from the ride or drowning on a ride involving water.
Causes of Injuries
If an injury victim is seeking compensation for the damages of a roller coaster injury, it is vital that we find the cause of the accident. Our attorneys will work alongside experts in the field to gather the evidence necessary to prove what caused the accident and who is liable for any resulting injuries. Following are some of the most common causes of amusement park accidents:
- Mechanical failure: There are numerous types of mechanical failures that could lead to a rider becoming injured. Examples of mechanical failures include a lap belt or harness becoming undone during the ride, the car becoming detached from the track, or a component (such as the brakes) failing.
- Operator error: Amusement parks employ individuals to operate their rides. These individuals are responsible for ensuring that each passenger is seated and secured properly in the ride, and that the ride starts and stops as it is intended. An error on the operator’s part can easily lead to a roller coaster accident.
- Passenger recklessness: While many roller coaster injuries are the result of mechanical or operator error, there are also numerous passengers who are responsible for their own injuries. If a rider fails to follow the provided instructions or takes reckless actions while on the ride, they are at fault for the accident and may be held liable for the injuries of any other passengers.
Compensation for Damages
Victims of roller coaster injuries can seek financial compensation from the person or party responsible for the accident. Our attorneys will build a strong case of liability and fight for maximum compensation for damages. Sources of compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases of wrongful death, surviving family members may seek compensation for financial and emotional losses.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured in an amusement park accident, you may be due financial compensation for your losses. Contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss the details of your case and learn more about your legal rights. We look forward to hearing from you.