Causes For Amusement Ride Injury
Poor setup can be a cause for injury, especially at carnivals and fairs that have moveable rides. Workers must take down and set up rides quickly, sometimes within 24 hours and in the dark. The combination of tired workers and setting up elaborate rides in the dark can be a recipe for mistakes. If carnival workers are not trained correctly, they may be responsible for setting up rides yet not know how to properly do so. Another issue is that many carnival and fair workers are underpaid, and therefore, not as motivated to be careful and avoid making mistakes.
Poor Maintenance
Poor maintenance can include not getting proper inspections of rides or not taking proper care of rides and fairgrounds. If there is a small issue with a ride, but the operator does not think that it is a big deal, they may choose to overlook it instead of making the issue known and getting it inspected. Carnivals and fairs also have little regulation on inspections, and may attempt to set up and operate without getting the rides properly inspected. It is also the duty of the parks or carnival to keep the grounds safe from dangers like glass on the floor, or a sharp piece poking out from a ride.
Poor Supervision
Lack of supervision refers to not enough staff, lifeguards, or safety personnel at each ride or at the park in general, or staff that is poorly trained. At amusement parks, if there is not enough staff, people who are not trained properly may be operating rides or there may not be enough people checking safety belts and height and weight requirements at rides.
At waterparks, not having enough lifeguards or safety personnel can be a safety issue, especially if the park is overcrowded and there are a lot of small children swimming. Not having enough eyes on kids and the water can allow for drowning accidents to be overlooked. Lastly, if not enough time is spent on training staff, they may make mistakes that could be prevented.
Height or Weight Requirements Not Enforced
Height and weight requirements are important for waterpark rides and amusement park rides because the ride manufacturers take into account the forces exerted onto one’s body during a ride. If a child is too light or small for a ride, the seat and safety features of the ride may not be equipped for someone that is smaller than the posted size. Manufacturers also take into account the maturity level that is needed to follow the safety guidelines of rides when creating restrictions. When ride operators and staff at parks do not enforce these guidelines, it can put riders at risk.
Mechanical Errors
Though rare, injuries can occur because of ride accidents that are due to mechanical errors. So much goes into all the mechanics and little parts that make up a thrill ride. However, sometimes oversights happen, rides may be old and worn out, or rides may be rusty. Having parts that are old and can break or parts that can fall off and hit people can be very dangerous.
Getting Help
If you or someone you know has been hurt at an amusement park, waterpark, or carnival and you believe that it occurred because of one of these reasons, you may likely have a winning personal injury case. Call us and speak with an attorney about the situation as soon as possible to find out how we can help you.