Amusement parks are popular summer destinations for bonding with family and friends, but they can occasionally be dangerous. The most common injuries that occur at amusement parks are broken bones and fractures, whiplash and other neck injuries, drowning accidents on water rides, back and spinal cord injuries, and concussion or traumatic brain injury.
Many of the same injuries you might sustain in a car accident can occur while riding amusement park rides. Brad says, “Some of those roller coasters can be brutally rough. Any injuries sustained should be reported immediately, and individuals should seek medical attention.”
Before visitors ever get in the first line, it’s important to make keeping track of your children’s whereabouts a priority. Just as vital is to have a plan for what to do if you get separated. Brad says, “When I’d take my girls to an amusement park, as soon as we arrived I’d point out a safe place like a park info kiosk or centrally located fountain and set it as a designated meeting place should we get separated. You should also let your kids know that they can rely on park security or employees to help.”
While most of the time an attendant will check to ensure everyone is properly secured before the ride begins, double-check your safety gear yourself. Be sure you maintain your seated position until the ride comes to a final stop. SaferParks.org recommends keeping all body parts inside the ride, securing all belongings in zipped or buttoned pockets so they don’t fall and cause an injury, and never standing up on a roller coaster or rocking a vehicle that’s not controlled by riders.
Visiting a water park comes with additional safety precautions to keep in mind. The most crucial thing is to know your child’s swimming ability and be cautious about allowing them into attractions such as wave pools without a life vest if they aren’t strong swimmers. Most water parks lend vests to visitors at no cost.Visiting a water park comes with additional safety precautions to keep in mind. The most crucial thing is to know your child’s swimming ability and be cautious about allowing them into attractions such as wave pools without a life vest if they aren’t strong swimmers. Most water parks lend vests to visitors at no cost.
Amusement Park Visitor Safety Tips
- Follow all safety instructions on rides
- Read ride restrictions before you get in line for a ride you have never ridden before
- If pregnant, have pain or injuries in your back or neck, or have a heart condition, you should not take a chance on high intensity thrill rides
- Avoid rides that seem to be malfunctioning
- Stay hydrated and fueled
- Use sun protection, such as sunscreen and hats
- Avoid restricted areas
- Pay attention to your surroundings
- Set a designated meeting location should you get separated from the group
Brad says, “If you see a broken safety bar, a person jumping the line, a backpack or bag that has been left unattended or anything else that could jeopardize the safety of a park guest, alert a park employee immediately. Remember they are there to help keep you safe. In the end, safety for you and your family is the most important thing.”
At Parker Law Firm, our experienced personal injury lawyers believe people matter. We are committed to our clients, not case numbers, and we believe in the power of the civil justice system. With years spent both representing accident victims and participating in the state legislative process, our founder, Brad Parker, has developed a deep understanding of the law and gained unique experience that helps him get results for his clients.
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