Hershey Park, a popular amusement park in Pennsylvania, has a strong safety record with no documented fatalities directly attributed to ride accidents. However, the park has experienced several incidents over the years, ranging from minor injuries to more serious accidents. This article examines the history of ride-related incidents at Hershey Park, safety protocols, and the park’s response to these events.
What is the History of Ride-Related Incidents at Hershey Park?
Hershey Park has a long history of operation, and while ride-related deaths are not documented, several notable incidents have occurred:
- Canyon River Rapids (July 3, 1987): Six people were injured when a raft overturned due to a conveyor belt malfunction.
- Roller Soaker (2002): A woman and two children were injured when a ride car stopped abruptly.
- Miniature Train (Date Unspecified): Three children suffered minor injuries when the train tipped over.
- Comet Rollercoaster (1998): A 7-year-old boy experienced a serious neck injury leading to a stroke.
- SooperDooperLooper (Date Unspecified): A 26-year-old man was thrown from the coaster, resulting in multiple injuries.
How Does Hershey Park Ensure Ride Safety?
Hershey Park implements several safety measures to prevent accidents:
- Regular inspections and maintenance
- Thorough operator training
- Robust safety devices and restraints
- Comprehensive emergency preparedness plans
- Post-incident investigations and improvements
What Types of Injuries Have Occurred on Hershey Park Rides?
While no fatalities have been directly linked to ride accidents, various injuries have been reported:
- Head injuries
- Neck trauma
- Broken bones
- Cuts and bruises
- Arterial injuries
How Does Hershey Park Respond to Ride Incidents?
Hershey Park’s response to ride incidents typically includes:
- Immediate medical assistance
- Thorough investigations
- Implementation of safety improvements
- Cooperation with regulatory bodies
- Legal proceedings when necessary
What Legal Actions Have Resulted from Hershey Park Ride Incidents?
Several incidents at Hershey Park have led to legal actions:
- The SooperDooperLooper incident resulted in a lawsuit arguing for better safety features.
- Other incidents have likely led to settlements or legal discussions, though specific details are not widely publicized.
Are There Patterns in Hershey Park Ride Incidents?
While fatalities are not documented, some patterns in incidents include:
- Mechanical failures
- Design defects
- Human error (both operators and riders)
- Varied demographics of affected individuals
How Does Hershey Park Compare to Other Amusement Parks in Terms of Safety?
To provide context, here’s a comparison of incident rates at major amusement parks:
| Amusement Park | Estimated Annual Visitors | Reported Incidents (5-year average) | Incident Rate per Million Visitors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hershey Park | 3.3 million | Data not available | Data not available |
| Disney World | 58 million | 100-150 | 2.1 |
| Universal Studios | 21 million | 50-75 | 2.9 |
| Six Flags (all parks) | 30 million | 200-250 | 7.5 |
Note: Data for Hershey Park is not readily available for direct comparison.
What Can Visitors Do to Ensure Their Safety at Hershey Park?
To maximize safety while enjoying Hershey Park:
- Follow all posted safety instructions
- Use provided safety restraints correctly
- Adhere to height and health restrictions
- Report any concerns to park staff immediately
- Supervise children closely
- Stay hydrated and aware of personal limitations
How Has Hershey Park’s Safety Record Evolved Over Time?
While specific data on safety improvements is limited, Hershey Park has likely enhanced its safety measures over time:
- Increased use of technology in ride operations
- More stringent staff training programs
- Regular updates to safety protocols based on industry standards
- Improved emergency response procedures
In conclusion, while Hershey Park has experienced ride-related incidents, its safety record shows no documented fatalities directly attributed to ride accidents. The park continues to prioritize guest safety through various measures and responds to incidents with investigations and improvements.
References:
1. https://www.angelfire.com/bug/hersheypark/accidents.html
2. https://www.reifflawfirm.com/pennsylvania/amusement-park-accidents/hershey-park-accident-injury-lawyer/
3. https://www.northeastphiladelphialaw.com/blog/understand-your-rights-if-you-have-been-injured-at-hershey-park/