Florida Amusement Parks
The International Association of Amusement Parks reports that more than 400 theme parks and attractions exist in the United States. Further, the industry employs over half a million people year-round while generating approximately $12 billion in revenue. There is little doubt these parks are fun and they play a major role in our economy and lives – however, if you plan on visiting a theme park soon, it is a important to understand the risks associated with these parks so you and your family can enjoy their time safely.
Florida Amusement Parks
Florida has a plethora of theme parks. After all, Orlando is known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World.” Among the most visited parks include Universal Orlando, Epcot, Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom, Busch Gardens, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The variety of rides that can be found at these parks include ferris wheels, roller coasters, swinging rides, water rides, wave pools, and water slides.
Sadly, incidents may arise on rides of any kind. As a result of a theme park accident, visitors could sustain brain injuries, broken bones, soft-tissue damage, and other physical and emotional trauma. Drowning and other water-related injuries are possible, as well.
The Florida Department of Agriculture allows theme parks to self-regulate by treating most first aid issues on site, reserving only serious injuries for hospitalization. This fact makes it difficult to determine how many visitors are hurt on rides each year.
Sometimes injuries are not the fault of the theme park, but instead they result from a guest’s health condition or fatigue resulting from dehydration or exposure to the hot Florida sun. To contrast, some injuries are caused from defective equipment, lack of maintenance, failure to engage in safety checks, distracted ride operators, or the lack of an employee to use a reasonable standard of care.
One Orlando Sentinel article provides some insight into the types of accidents taking place in Florida theme parks. The Sentinel reviewed nearly 500 federal and state lawsuits filed against three theme park companies between January 2004 and December 2008, finding that 218 cases involved people who alleged they slipped or tripped and fell during a visit to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, or a Busch Entertainment theme park or resort. Another 158 lawsuits involved a variety of accidents in shops, during shows or on streets or sidewalks.
Let Us Help You Recover Compensation
Although a visit to a theme park should be filled with joy, it may turn into a nightmare if you or a loved one is injured. At Boone & Davis, we are prepared to help you recover the compensation you need in the aftermath of a devastating injury in Fort Lauderdale. Reach out to us today for a consultation on your case and to learn how we can begin working on your behalf.
