The Hershey Park roller coaster lawsuit, filed in 2020, involves allegations of safety negligence on the Storm Runner ride. A father sued on behalf of his 9-year-old son, claiming park staff failed to secure the boy’s safety harness properly. While no physical injuries occurred, the incident raised questions about ride safety protocols and park liability. This lawsuit highlights the importance of stringent safety measures in amusement parks and the potential legal consequences of negligence.
What Are the Specific Allegations in the Hershey Park Roller Coaster Lawsuit?
The lawsuit against Hersheypark, filed around July 2020, centers on a frightening experience involving a 9-year-old boy on the Storm Runner roller coaster. The key allegations include:
- Failure to properly secure the child’s safety harness
- Negligence in ensuring rider safety
- Potential breach of safety protocols
While this particular incident didn’t result in physical harm, it underscores the critical importance of rigorous safety measures in amusement parks.
How Common Are Accidents at Hershey Park?
Despite the park’s overall safety record, accidents do occur. Here’s a breakdown of reported incidents:
- 137 serious injuries reported over a two-year period (2009-2010)
- Types of injuries include:
- Lacerations
- Chipped teeth
- Neck and back pain
- Electrical burns
- Fractured bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
It’s important to note that these injuries aren’t limited to roller coasters but occur across various attractions within the park.
What Safety Regulations Does Hershey Park Follow?
Hersheypark, like other amusement parks, is subject to strict safety regulations. These include:
- Regular maintenance checks on rides
- Adherence to industry safety standards
- Comprehensive training for ride operators
However, the lawsuit raises questions about the effectiveness of these measures in practice.
How Might This Lawsuit Impact Hershey Park’s Future Operations?
While the specific outcome of this lawsuit remains undisclosed, such incidents often lead to:
- Enhanced safety measures
- Improved staff training protocols
- More rigorous maintenance schedules
- Potential policy changes to prevent similar incidents
The park may also face increased scrutiny from regulators and the public, potentially impacting its reputation and operations.
What Are the Most Common Types of Injuries at Hershey Park?
Based on available data, the most frequent injuries at Hersheypark include:
- Trip-and-fall accidents
- Slip-and-fall incidents
- Ride-related injuries (varying in severity)
These accidents can occur anywhere in the park, not just on roller coasters or thrill rides.
How Does Hershey Park’s Safety Record Compare to Other Amusement Parks?
While specific comparative data isn’t readily available, it’s worth noting that:
- Amusement park injuries are relatively rare considering the millions of visitors annually
- Hersheypark, like other major parks, is subject to regular inspections and safety audits
- The occurrence of lawsuits doesn’t necessarily indicate a poor safety record compared to other parks
What Should Visitors Know About Roller Coaster Safety at Hershey Park?
To ensure a safe experience on Hersheypark roller coasters:
- Follow all posted safety instructions
- Ensure safety harnesses are properly secured
- Report any concerns to ride operators immediately
- Avoid rides if you have certain medical conditions or meet specific physical criteria
Remember, while park staff are responsible for overall safety, visitors play a crucial role in maintaining their own well-being.
How Might This Lawsuit Affect the Amusement Park Industry as a Whole?
The Hershey Park roller coaster lawsuit could have broader implications:
- Increased focus on safety protocols across all parks
- Potential for stricter regulations in the amusement park industry
- Greater emphasis on staff training and accountability
- Possible changes in ride design and safety features
These changes could lead to improved safety standards industry-wide, benefiting park visitors across the country.
What Legal Recourse Do Visitors Have in Case of Amusement Park Accidents?
If you experience an accident at an amusement park:
- Report the incident immediately to park staff
- Seek medical attention if necessary
- Document the incident (photos, witness statements)
- Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney
Remember, parks have a duty of care to ensure visitor safety, and negligence can be grounds for legal action.
In conclusion, the Hershey Park roller coaster lawsuit serves as a reminder of the critical importance of safety in amusement parks. While such incidents are relatively rare, they highlight the need for constant vigilance, stringent safety protocols, and accountability in the industry. As the legal proceedings unfold, it may lead to improved safety measures not just at Hersheypark, but potentially across the amusement park industry as a whole.
References:
1. https://www.reifflawfirm.com/pennsylvania/amusement-park-accidents/hershey-park-accident-injury-lawyer/
2. https://parkfans.net/threads/lawsuit-claims-improperly-secured-restraints-on-storm-runner.6749/
3. https://www.phillyvoice.com/hersheypark-storm-runner-lawsuit-pennsylvania-denoto-dad-son-roller-coaster/