The Storm Runner Hershey Park lawsuit stems from a June 2018 incident where a 9-year-old boy’s harness was allegedly unsecured on the roller coaster. Filed in July 2020, the lawsuit claims negligence by ride operators, causing psychological distress to the boy and his father. Hersheypark denies the allegations, and the case highlights concerns about amusement park safety protocols and operator vigilance.
What Happened on Storm Runner at Hershey Park?
On June 26, 2018, a father and his 9-year-old son boarded the Storm Runner roller coaster at Hersheypark. According to the lawsuit filed two years later, the boy’s harness was not properly secured. The father reportedly alerted ride operators to the issue, but his concerns were allegedly ignored. As a result, the boy exited the ride before it started, while his father completed the ride alone.
What Are the Specific Claims in the Storm Runner Lawsuit?
The lawsuit against Hersheypark alleges several key points:
- Negligence by ride operators
- Failure to properly secure the boy’s harness
- Ignoring the father’s concerns about safety
- Causing significant anxiety and psychological distress to both father and son
How Has Hersheypark Responded to the Lawsuit?
Hersheypark has denied the claims made in the lawsuit. The park maintains that its rides, including Storm Runner, are subject to rigorous safety checks and protocols. However, the specific details of their defense are not publicly available.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for Storm Runner?
Storm Runner, like most modern roller coasters, is designed with multiple safety features:
- Automated restraint checks
- Manual inspections by ride operators
- Emergency stop mechanisms
Despite these measures, the lawsuit alleges a failure in the safety protocol on the day of the incident.
Has Storm Runner Been Involved in Previous Incidents?
While there are no documented previous incidents on Storm Runner that directly influenced this legal action, the current lawsuit has brought attention to the ride’s safety procedures. It’s important to note that roller coasters, in general, are subject to strict safety regulations and regular inspections.
What Are the Potential Implications of This Lawsuit for Amusement Park Safety?
The Storm Runner lawsuit could have several implications for amusement park safety:
- Increased scrutiny of safety protocols
- Enhanced training for ride operators
- Potential updates to restraint systems
- More rigorous pre-ride checks
What Compensation Is Being Sought in the Storm Runner Lawsuit?
The specific compensation amounts sought in the lawsuit are not detailed in the available sources. However, typical amusement park injury lawsuits may seek damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Psychological treatment costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
What Is the Current Status of the Storm Runner Lawsuit?
As of the last available updates, the lawsuit was ongoing. There have been no reports of settlements or final judgments in the case. The legal proceedings continue to unfold, with both parties likely gathering evidence and potentially engaging in negotiations.
How Common Are Amusement Park Lawsuits?
While amusement park lawsuits are not uncommon, it’s important to contextualize them:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Relatively rare compared to park attendance numbers |
| Common Causes | Operator error, mechanical failures, guest misconduct |
| Typical Outcomes | Settlements, safety improvements, occasional trials |
Most amusement parks prioritize safety and have comprehensive protocols in place to prevent incidents.
What Should Visitors Know About Roller Coaster Safety at Hersheypark?
Visitors to Hersheypark and other amusement parks should:
- Follow all posted safety guidelines
- Ensure they meet height and health requirements for rides
- Secure loose articles before boarding
- Alert operators to any concerns before the ride starts
- Use restraints properly and check their own security
How Might This Lawsuit Affect Hersheypark’s Reputation?
The Storm Runner lawsuit has the potential to impact Hersheypark’s reputation in several ways:
- Increased public scrutiny of safety measures
- Potential changes in visitor perception of ride safety
- Possible implementation of more visible safety protocols
However, Hersheypark’s response to the lawsuit and any resulting safety enhancements could also demonstrate their commitment to guest safety.
What Lessons Can Other Amusement Parks Learn from This Incident?
The Storm Runner incident and subsequent lawsuit offer several lessons for the amusement park industry:
- The importance of thorough and consistent safety checks
- The need for attentive and responsive ride operators
- The value of taking guest concerns seriously
- The potential long-term impacts of safety incidents, even without physical injuries
As the legal proceedings continue, the amusement park industry will likely watch closely for any outcomes that could influence safety practices across the sector.
References:
1. https://parkfans.net/threads/lawsuit-claims-improperly-secured-restraints-on-storm-runner.6749/
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Storm_Runner
3. https://www.casetext.com/case/nilson-v-hershey-entertainment-resorts-company-4