Every year, millions of people visit amusement parks to have fun. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, as thousands of people are hurt each year in amusement park accidents. While some of these accidents are not serious, others cause injuries that last a lifetime. The following discusses what you can do if you or a loved one sustains injuries after an amusement park accident.

Types of Injuries

Amusement park accidents can occur in many different ways. Many parks feature roller coasters, water slides, and a variety of games for people to enjoy. When something goes wrong, people can suffer injuries that range from minor to fatal. Some of the most common types of amusement park injuries include:

• Whiplash
• Closed head injuries
• Back injuries
• Neck injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Fatal injuries from falling out of rides
• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Drowning on water rides and slides
• Bone fractures
• Facial lacerations and fractures
• Brain aneurysms
• Torn ligaments
• Compound fractures that require surgical repair

Causes of Accidents and Injuries

The causes of accidents and injuries that occur in amusement parks are vast as there are many different activities and rides within the premise. Some of the most common causes of amusement park incidents that lead to injury are:

• Human Error and Negligence

There had been several reported cases where ride operators fail to do their job properly due to different reasons, such as poor/inadequate training, substance abuse, being overworked or being complacent.

• Mechanical Failure

Among the most common mechanical failures that occur in amusement park include seat belt breakage, computer breakdown, and malfunctioning brakes.  Regularly conducting test rides and checking mechanical systems would help avoid future accidents.

• Robbery Or Assault At Amusement Parks

Assault and theft are very common complaints among amusement park goers.  Thieves know park visitors will be carrying more money than usual to pay for entrance tickets, new rides, lockers, and food. If the amusement park does not have adequate security measures in place or security cameras, they may be held liable for violent acts.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Amusement park incidents are filed under the premises liability laws in the state where the accident occurred. To obtain compensation, you must prove that your injuries were due to the negligence of the amusement park or a ride manufacturer. For this reason, it may be a good idea to hire an attorney who can help prove your case.

Types of Damages Awarded

If you have been hurt at an amusement park, you may be compensated for the following:

• Hospital bills
• Cost of emergency care
• Physical, speech or occupational therapy
• Doctor’s fee
• Emotional distress
• Physical pain and suffering

Premises liability law also provides a way for family members of loved ones killed in amusement park incidents to seek compensation for their injuries. This type of lawsuit is known as a wrongful death suit and can be filed by the:

• Spouse or domestic partner of the deceased
• Legitimate children or step-children of the deceased
• Parents of deceased if under 18

How Can An Attorney Help?

Proving an amusement park injury can be quite complicated. An attorney can review your case, and discuss with you if you should bother suing the amusement park and what damages you can collect for you or the injured loved one.

An attorney with strong experience in handling premises liability claims can help prove your case by:

• Obtaining accident reports
• Hiring accident investigators
• Speaking to medical experts to establish and strengthen your case
• Negotiating with the amusement park’s insurance company
• Filing your lawsuit in court
• Representing you or your loved one in court and at trial

The legal process of amusement park accidents can be agonizing for many accident victims. Having an attorney to guide you throughout the process can reduce the frustration and stress associated with your case.

If you or a loved one has been hurt at an amusement park, look for an attorney that specialize in handling personal injury claims. After reviewing your medical records and the facts surrounding your case, your attorney will let you know how to move forward with your case. While the legal process is never an easy one, it will allow you to obtain appropriate compensation for your injuries caused by the negligence of the amusement park.