Amusement Park Rides Can Pose Injuries to Children

By Joe Messa

May 09

Personal injury attorneys report on a new study released in the journal Clinical Pediatrics that warns parents of injuries caused by rides at amusement and theme parks, carnivals, malls, restaurants, and arcades. The study says that almost 93,000 children under the age of 18 suffered injuries on rides that required emergency room care from 1990 to 2010. Injuries from rides can include whiplash, neck and back injuries, heart attacks, broken bones and internal injuries. In severe cases, head, brain or spinal cord injury can occur as well as death.

Researchers report that those injured on “mall rides” are typically very young children, and are more likely to suffer head/neck or face injuries, concussions or cuts. They also noted that most of the injuries occurred during the months of May to September, with an average of 20 injuries a day during these months. Experts also pointed out that girls account for 56 percent of the injuries when compared to injuries to little boys.

Personal Injury Attorneys Give Tips on Amusement Park Ride Safety

According to statistics provided by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, 1,415 injuries were reported by amusement and theme park visitors in 2011. Of those injuries, 61 people required some form of overnight treatment at a hospital.

The IAAPA and The Center of Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital suggest following these safety tips when enjoying amusement park attractions and other rides:
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  • Obey listed age, height, weight, and health restrictions.
  • Observe all posted ride safety rules, including any special seating guidelines or loading instructions.
  • Keep hands, arms, legs and feet inside the ride at all times.
  • Remain seated in the ride until it comes to a complete stop and you are instructed to exit.
  • Follow instructions given by ride operators or provided by recorded announcements.
  • Use safety equipment provided and do not wriggle free of or loosen restraints or other safety devices.
  • Avoid “mall rides” that are on hard, unpadded surfaces or if they are not equipped with any child restraint such as a seat belt.
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New Jersey and Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys

The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Messa & Associates are experienced at handling personal injury cases involving injuries to children as a result of defective rides at amusement parks. Our extremely skilled team of personal injury lawyers and medical experts is dedicated to ensuring you receive proper compensation for your personal injuries. If you have suffered an injury resulting from an amusement park ride or any other type of personal injury, contact the personal injury lawyers of Messa & Associates for a free consultation. Call toll free at 1-877-MessaLaw, or submit a free online inquiry.

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About the Author

Joseph L. Messa, Jr. is the founding partner of Messa & Associates, P.C. He is an AV-rated attorney (highest rating available), listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers. Read More