Everyone—especially children—loves amusement parks and thrill rides. But they can be dangerous. In 1999, six people died on amusement park rides, and about 9,000 more were injured on them. With rides being designed to be faster and more exciting, injuries are increasing. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (Commission) is an independent federal regulatory agency established by Congress in the Consumer Product Safety Act to protect the public against unreasonable risks of injury and death from consumer products. The Commission has jurisdiction ONLY over mobile amusement rides, i.e. those rides transported from location to location. According to the best available information, currently, ten states do not have state administered inspection programs for mobile rides; and fourteen states and the District of Columbia do not have state administered inspection programs for fixed-site rides. While authority under each state's legislation differs, the main purpose is the prevention of ride incidents through the early identification of unsafe and defective rides. There are various examination levels and certification both public and private. Do not let your family take chances. Always get a park ride safety brochure; comply with age or height restrictions; chaperone youngsters; don’t get on if you’re afraid; buckle all safety harnesses and restraints; keep hands inside, and hold on; don’t wear loose-fitting clothing, especially baggy sleeves; and know where first aid or EMT service is.

Legal claims involving amusement rides can involve complex legal and technical issues. The following are a few important legal, factual and evidentiary matters that should be considered when evaluating a claim.

• What was the specific accident and injuries involved?

• Did a government agency investigate the accident?

• Were any photos or videos taken of the accident scene?

• Was there a pre- or post ride inspection?

• Were there proper safety rules, and were they being properly enforced?

• Did the amusement company or employees violate any safety regulations?

• Was the particular ride properly designed, constructed, and maintained?

• Did any component or electrical system fail?

• Was there defective blocking, bracing,  or shoring?

• Were there proper seat restraints?

• Was there any welding failure?

• Did a hydraulics/pneumatics system fail?

• Were all applicable Safety Codes and Standards being complied with?

It is important that an experienced legal team evaluate a amusement park accident claim. Complex legal, factual, and evidentiary issues may be involved. If you, a friend, or loved one are hurt in an amusement park accident, you should take immediate steps to protect your or their interest. Do not compromise your rights by making statements to the press, insurance investigators, potential defendants, their representatives, and do not sign anything. Consider the suggestions in our accident guide, and call us immediately. We are here to help. At Larry King, P.C., we recognize the unique issues pertaining to your claim. You can call us seven days a week, 24 hours a day, everyday of the year. We also offer a free legal-infoline service, and you can now contact us on this web site by using the following Personal Injury Contact form. We are committed to doing the extra things it takes to help our clients.