Water Park Accidents

Water parks have become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting millions of visitors annually with their thrilling rides, refreshing pools, and family-friendly atmospheres. However, behind the excitement and fun lies a disturbing truth: water park accidents occur more frequently than many people realize, often resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. In this article, we’ll delve into the shocking statistics surrounding water park accidents, explore the common causes behind these incidents, and discuss the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Alarming Frequency of Water Park Accidents

According to a study conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 4,200 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for injuries sustained at water parks. These injuries range from minor bruises and cuts to more severe conditions such as head trauma, spinal cord damage, and even drowning. Shockingly, between 2000 and 2019, there were at least 28 reported deaths at water parks across the United States.

Statistic	Source
In 2015, there were an estimated 4,200 emergency room visits related to water park injuries in the U.S.	U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Between 2000 and 2017, there were 12 reported deaths at water parks in the United States.	New Jersey Department of Community Affairs study
From 2000 to 2017, there were over 80 reported accidents at water parks resulting in serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones.	New Jersey Department of Community Affairs study
In a study of water park injuries treated at a single hospital between 2007 and 2012, the most common types of injuries were sprains/strains (31.7%), fractures (24.4%), and contusions/abrasions (17.1%).	Single hospital study (2007-2012)
The body parts most frequently injured in water park accidents were the head/face (26.8%), upper extremities (26.8%), and lower extremities (26.8%).	Single hospital study (2007-2012)
The chance of being seriously injured at a fixed-site amusement park in the U.S. is about 1 in 16 million visits.	International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) report (2013)
Between 2017 and 2019, there were an estimated 18,300 injuries associated with water slides treated in U.S. emergency departments.	U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
From 2015 to 2017, there were an estimated 6,800 injuries associated with water slides treated in U.S. emergency departments annually.	U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Between 1990 and 2010, there were an estimated 93,200 children under the age of 18 treated in U.S. emergency departments for water park-related injuries.	Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital study (2014)
The annual number of water park-related injuries among children increased by 73.8% between 1990 and 2010.	Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital study (2014)

Notable statistics related to water park accidents

Recent Theme & Water Park Accidents: What Happened & Why

Theme parks and water parks are beloved destinations for millions of thrill-seekers and families looking for a fun-filled escape from daily life. However, these amusement parks are not without their risks, as recent tragic accidents have been brought to light. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most notable theme and water park accidents in recent years, exploring what went wrong and why these incidents continue to occur.

1. The Tragic Death of Tyre Sampson at ICON Park

On March 24, 2022, 14-year-old Tyre Sampson lost his life after falling from the Orlando FreeFall ride at ICON Park in Florida. The incident sent shockwaves through the amusement park industry and sparked intense scrutiny of the ride’s safety measures.

What Happened?

Tyre Sampson, who stood at 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighed around 340 pounds, slipped out of his seat during the ride’s descent and fell to his death. Investigations revealed that the ride’s operators had manually adjusted the seat’s proximity sensors, allowing the ride to operate even when the harness was not properly secured.

Why Did It Happen?

The Orlando FreeFall tragedy was a result of several factors, including:

• Lack of proper safety restraints: The ride’s harnesses were not designed to accommodate riders of Tyre’s size, and there were no secondary restraints in place.
• Negligent ride operation: The ride’s operators manually overrode safety sensors, allowing the ride to function despite the improperly secured harness.
• Insufficient oversight and regulation: Florida’s amusement park regulations do not require state inspections for rides at parks with more than 1,000 employees, leaving safety checks in the hands of the operators.

2. The Haunted Mine Drop Accident at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

In September 2021, a 6-year-old girl named Wongel Estifanos died on the Haunted Mine Drop ride at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Colorado. The incident raised questions about the park’s safety protocols and the ride’s design.

What Happened?

Wongel Estifanos was not properly secured in her seat before the ride began. As the ride descended, she slipped out of her seat and fell 110 feet to the bottom of the shaft, suffering fatal injuries.

Why Did It Happen?

The Haunted Mine Drop accident was caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Operator error: The ride operators failed to ensure that Wongel was properly secured in her seat before starting the ride.
• Lack of automated safety features: The ride’s control system alerted operators to unsecured seatbelts, but the operators were able to manually override the system and dispatch the ride.
• Inadequate training and supervision: Investigators found that the park’s operators were not adequately trained on the ride’s safety procedures and lacked proper supervision.

3. The Raging River Accident at Adventureland Park

In July 2021, an 11-year-old boy named Michael Jaramillo drowned on the Raging River ride at Adventureland Park in Iowa. The incident led to the permanent closure of the ride and raised concerns about the park’s maintenance practices.

What Happened?

Michael Jaramillo and his family were riding the Raging River when their raft flipped over, trapping them underwater. Michael and his older brother David were both critically injured, and Michael ultimately lost his life due to drowning.

Why Did It Happen?

The Raging River accident was attributed to several factors, including:

• Poor maintenance and repair practices: Investigators found that the ride’s rafts had been repaired with improper materials and techniques, compromising their structural integrity.
• Inadequate staff training and response: The park’s employees were not adequately trained to respond to emergencies, and there was a delay in shutting off the ride and initiating a rescue.
• Lack of safety upgrades: The Raging River ride had been in operation since 1983 and had not received significant safety upgrades or modifications to address changing industry standards.

4. The Verrückt Water Slide Tragedy at Schlitterbahn Water Park

In August 2016, 10-year-old Caleb Schwab was decapitated while riding the Verrückt water slide at Schlitterbahn Water Park in Kansas City, Kansas. The incident led to criminal charges against the park’s owners and the slide’s designers.

What Happened?

Caleb Schwab was riding the Verrückt slide, which featured a 168-foot drop and speeds of up to 70 miles per hour when the raft he was in went airborne and struck a metal pole supporting a safety net. Caleb was decapitated in the collision, and two adult women in the raft suffered serious injuries.

Why Did It Happen?

The Verrückt tragedy was caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Flawed design and construction: The slide’s designers had no prior experience in water park ride engineering, and the slide’s complex design made it inherently dangerous.
• Inadequate testing and safety protocols: The park rushed the slide’s opening and failed to conduct sufficient testing or implement necessary safety measures.
• Lack of regulatory oversight: Kansas law at the time allowed water parks to self-inspect their rides, with no requirement for state inspections or oversight.

5. Lessons Learned and the Need for Improved Safety Measures

These tragic accidents highlight the need for stricter safety regulations, improved ride design and maintenance, and better training for amusement park staff. Some key lessons learned include:

1. Enhanced safety restraints and redundant systems: Rides should be designed with multiple layers of safety features, including secure restraints and automated shutdown systems that cannot be easily overridden.
2. Strict adherence to weight and size restrictions: Ride operators must enforce weight and size limits to ensure that safety restraints can function properly and prevent accidents.
3. Regular inspections and maintenance: Amusement parks should be required to undergo frequent, thorough inspections by qualified third-party experts to identify and address potential safety issues.
4. Comprehensive staff training and emergency response protocols: Park employees must be well-trained in ride operation, safety procedures, and emergency response to minimize the risk of accidents and respond effectively when incidents occur.
5. Robust regulatory oversight: State and federal agencies should implement and enforce stringent safety regulations for amusement parks, with regular inspections and strict penalties for non-compliance.

As the amusement park industry continues to evolve, safety must remain the top priority. By learning from these tragic accidents and implementing necessary changes, theme parks and water parks can work to prevent future tragedies and ensure that guests can enjoy thrilling experiences without compromising their well-being.

Who is Responsible for Water Park Accidents?

Determining responsibility for water park accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may be liable depending on the specific circumstances of the incident. In general, the following entities may be held accountable for water park accidents:

1. Water Park Owners and Operators

Water park owners and operators have a legal duty to provide a safe environment for their guests. This includes properly designing, constructing, and maintaining rides and attractions, as well as implementing and enforcing appropriate safety rules and procedures. If an accident occurs due to negligence on the part of the owner or operator, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries or damages.

Examples of negligence may include:

• Failing to properly maintain rides and equipment
• Inadequate staff training and supervision
• Lack of appropriate safety signage and warnings
• Overcrowding or allowing too many guests on a ride at once
• Failing to enforce height, weight, or age restrictions

2. Ride Manufacturers and Designers

Companies that design and manufacture water park rides and attractions can be held responsible if an accident occurs due to a defect in the product. This may include design flaws, manufacturing defects, or inadequate safety features.

In such cases, victims may be able to pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer or designer, seeking compensation for their injuries and related damages.

3. Park Employees and Ride Operators

Individual employees and ride operators at water parks can also be held accountable for accidents if their negligence or misconduct contributes to an incident. This may include failing to properly operate a ride, ignoring safety protocols, or providing inadequate supervision of guests.

In some cases, the water park itself may be held vicariously liable for the actions of its employees, as employers are generally responsible for the conduct of their staff while on the job.

4. Government Agencies and Regulatory Bodies

In some instances, government agencies and regulatory bodies tasked with overseeing amusement park safety may share responsibility for accidents if they fail to properly enforce safety standards or conduct necessary inspections.

For example, if a state agency responsible for inspecting water parks fails to identify and address a serious safety violation, and an accident occurs as a result, the agency may face scrutiny and potential liability.

5. Guests and Visitors

While water park owners and operators must provide a safe environment, guests also have a responsibility to follow posted rules and safety guidelines. If a guest’s own negligence or reckless behavior contributes to an accident, they may be found partially or fully liable for their injuries.

Examples of guest negligence may include:

• Ignoring posted safety warnings and instructions
• Engaging in horseplay or disruptive behavior on rides
• Entering restricted areas or attempting to use rides while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failing to properly supervise children in their care

Determining Liability in Water Park Accident Cases

In many water park accident cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for the incident. Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident, an analysis of applicable safety regulations and industry standards, and an evaluation of the actions and conduct of all involved parties.

Victims of water park accidents should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help them navigate the complexities of these cases and pursue fair compensation for their injuries and losses. By holding negligent parties accountable, victims can not only seek justice for themselves but also help to promote improved safety standards and practices throughout the water park industry.

Common Causes of Water Park Accidents

While water parks are designed to provide a thrilling and enjoyable experience, several factors can contribute to accidents and injuries. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Ride Malfunctions and Mechanical Failures

Water park rides are complex machines that require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure their proper functioning. When these rides malfunction or suffer mechanical failures, the consequences can be devastating. In some cases, passengers have been thrown from their seats, crashed into obstacles, or become trapped underwater due to malfunctioning restraints or faulty mechanisms.

2. Improper Ride Design and Construction

Not all water park rides are created equal. Some may have inherent design flaws or construction defects that increase the risk of accidents. For example, a slide with an overly steep drop or sharp turns can cause riders to lose control and collide with the sides of the chute. Similarly, a poorly designed wave pool or lazy river can create dangerous currents or hidden hazards that can trap and drown unsuspecting swimmers.

3. Poor Maintenance and Lack of Inspections

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to ensuring the safety of water park attractions. However, some parks may neglect these essential tasks to cut costs or maximize profits. When rides are not properly maintained or inspected, wear and tear can lead to dangerous malfunctions, such as broken restraints, cracked slides, or malfunctioning pumps.

4. Operator Error and Lack of Training

Water park operators play a critical role in ensuring the safety of guests. They are responsible for monitoring rides, enforcing safety rules, and responding to emergencies. However, when operators are poorly trained or inattentive, accidents can occur. For example, an operator who fails to ensure that all passengers are properly secured before starting a ride can put lives at risk.

5. Guests Ignoring Safety Rules and Restrictions

Despite the efforts of water park staff to promote safety, some guests may choose to ignore posted rules and restrictions. This can include behaviors such as standing up on slides, diving into shallow pools, or entering restricted areas. When guests disregard safety guidelines, they not only put themselves at risk but also endanger others around them.

Types of Injuries Sustained in Water Park Accidents

The injuries sustained in water park accidents can range from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common types of injuries include:

1. Head, Neck, and Back Injuries

The forces exerted on the body during high-speed water slides and rides can cause serious head, neck, and back injuries. These may include concussions, whiplash, herniated discs, and even paralysis.

2. Broken Bones and Fractures

The impact of colliding with the sides of a slide or being thrown from a ride can result in broken bones and fractures. Common fracture sites include the wrists, ankles, and ribs.

3. Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations

Contact with rough surfaces, sharp edges, or other hazards can cause cuts, bruises, and lacerations. These injuries may require stitches or other medical attention.

4. Drownings and Near-Drownings

Water parks present a significant risk of drowning, particularly in wave pools, lazy rivers, and other attractions with deep water. Drownings and near-drownings can cause brain damage, respiratory problems, and even death.

5. Infections and Illnesses from Contaminated Water

Improperly maintained water parks can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause infections and illnesses. These may include gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes, and respiratory problems.

Notable Water Park Accidents and Fatalities

Tragically, water park accidents have claimed numerous lives over the years. Some of the most notable incidents include:

1. Verrückt Water Slide Decapitation (Schlitterbahn KC)

In August 2016, a 10-year-old boy named Caleb Schwab was decapitated while riding the Verrückt water slide at Schlitterbahn Kansas City. The raft he was in went airborne and struck a metal pole supporting a safety net. The incident led to criminal charges against the park owner and the slide’s designer.

2. Woman Falls to Death from Roller Coaster (Knott’s Berry Farm)

In September 2001, a 40-year-old woman fell to her death from the Perilous Plunge roller coaster at Knott’s Berry Farm in California. The incident was caused by a malfunctioning lap bar that allowed the woman to be ejected from her seat.

3. Boy Killed on Raging River Ride (Adventureland Park)

In July 2021, an 11-year-old boy drowned on the Raging River ride at Adventureland Park in Iowa. The raft he was in flipped over, trapping him and his family underwater. The incident led to the permanent closure of the ride and multiple lawsuits against the park.

Lack of Consistent Safety Regulations for Water Parks

Despite the frequency and severity of water park accidents, there is a surprising lack of consistent safety regulations governing these attractions. Some key issues include:

1. No Federal Oversight, Regulations Vary by State

Unlike amusement parks, which are subject to federal oversight by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, water parks are primarily regulated at the state level. This means that safety requirements and inspection procedures can vary widely from one state to another.

2. Some Major Parks Exempt from State Inspections

In some states, major theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios are exempt from regular safety inspections due to special agreements with local governments. This lack of external oversight can make it difficult to ensure that these parks are maintaining adequate safety standards.

3. Reliance on Self-Reporting of Accidents by Parks

Many states rely on water parks to self-report accidents and injuries, rather than conducting independent investigations. This system can lead to underreporting of incidents and a lack of accountability for parks that fail to prioritize safety.

Liability and Legal Recourse for Water Park Accident Victims

Victims of water park accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, pursuing a legal claim against a water park can be a complex and challenging process. Some key considerations include:

1. Premises Liability Lawsuits Against Negligent Parks

In many cases, water park accident victims can file a premises liability lawsuit against the park owner or operator. To succeed in such a claim, the victim must typically prove that the park was negligent in maintaining a safe environment or failed to warn guests of known hazards.

2. Product Liability Claims Against Ride Manufacturers

If a water park accident was caused by a defective or improperly designed ride, the victim may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer. These cases can be complex, as they often require extensive technical expertise and evidence to prove that the ride was unreasonably dangerous.

3. Challenges in Proving Liability and Winning Compensation

Proving liability in a water park accident case can be difficult, as parks often have extensive legal teams and may attempt to blame the victim for their own injuries. Additionally, some states have laws that limit the amount of compensation that can be recovered in personal injury lawsuits, making it harder for victims to obtain full and fair compensation.

Steps to Take If You Are Injured at a Water Park

If you or a loved one is injured at a water park, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Injuries

The first priority after any water park accident should be to seek medical attention for any injuries. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked out by a healthcare professional to ensure that there are no hidden or delayed symptoms.

2. Report the Accident to Park Authorities

Be sure to report the accident to the water park’s management or security staff as soon as possible. Request a written incident report and obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses.

3. Document the Scene, Get Witness Statements

If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any hazards or malfunctioning equipment. Obtain written statements from any witnesses who saw the accident occur.

4. Contact an Experienced Water Park Accident Attorney

Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who has handled water park accident cases. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, gather evidence to support your claim, and negotiate with insurance companies or pursue a lawsuit if necessary.

Top 10 Water Park Accident Lawyers in USA

When searching for a top water park accident lawyer, it’s essential to find an experienced attorney with a proven track record of success in handling similar cases. Here are ten highly regarded water park accident lawyers and law firms in the United States:

1. Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. – Based in Chicago, Illinois, this law firm has extensive experience in handling water park accident cases and has secured numerous multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for their clients.
2. Morgan & Morgan – With offices nationwide, including in Florida, California, and New York, Morgan & Morgan is one of the largest personal injury law firms in the country. They have a team of experienced attorneys dedicated to handling water park accident cases.
3. The Reiff Law Firm – Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, The Reiff Law Firm has a strong reputation for representing victims of amusement park and water park accidents. They have successfully handled cases against major theme park operators and manufacturers.
4. Cellino Law – With offices in Buffalo and Rochester, New York, Cellino Law has a team of experienced personal injury attorneys who have handled numerous water park accident cases, securing significant settlements and verdicts for their clients.
5. Sigelman Associates – Based in Los Angeles, California, Sigelman Associates has a proven track record of success in representing victims of water park accidents and other amusement park injuries.
6. Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman – With offices in Los Angeles, California, and throughout the United States, Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman is a nationally recognized law firm with experience in handling complex water park accident cases.
7. The Gilbert Law Group – Located in Denver, Colorado, The Gilbert Law Group has a team of experienced attorneys who specialize in amusement park and water park accident cases, with a focus on product liability and negligence claims.
8. Breakstone, White & Gluck – Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Breakstone, White & Gluck has a strong reputation for representing victims of water park accidents and other personal injury cases throughout the state.
9. Feldman Shepherd Wohlgelernter Tanner Weinstock Dodig LLP – With offices in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, Feldman Shepherd has a team of experienced trial attorneys who have successfully handled numerous water park accident cases.
10. The Simon Law Firm, P.C. – Located in St. Louis, Missouri, The Simon Law Firm has a proven track record of success in representing victims of water park accidents and other complex personal injury cases.

When choosing a water park accident lawyer, it’s important to consider factors such as their experience, resources, and track record of success in handling similar cases. Many top law firms offer free initial consultations, allowing potential clients to discuss their cases and evaluate their legal options without any upfront costs.

By working with a skilled and experienced water park accident lawyer, victims can ensure that their rights are protected and that they have the best possible chance of securing fair compensation for their injuries and losses.

Conclusion

Water park accidents are a serious and often overlooked threat to public safety. By understanding the common causes of these accidents, the types of injuries that can occur, and the legal challenges involved in pursuing compensation, we can work together to hold negligent parks accountable and prevent future tragedies.

It’s clear that more needs to be done to improve safety standards and oversight in the water park industry. This may include implementing federal regulations, increasing the frequency and rigor of safety inspections, and requiring parks to promptly report all accidents and injuries.

As individuals, we can also take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones when visiting water parks. This includes following all posted safety rules and restrictions, maintaining close supervision of children, and being aware of potential hazards or malfunctioning equipment.

By working together to prioritize safety and accountability, we can help ensure that water parks remain a source of joy and excitement, rather than a site of preventable tragedy.

FAQs

1. What should I do if I witness a water park accident?

If you witness a water park accident, notify park staff immediately and call 911 if emergency medical assistance is required. If possible, stay with the injured person until help arrives and provide any relevant information to authorities.

2. Can I sue a water park if I was injured due to my own negligence?

In most cases, if your own negligence contributed to your injuries, it may be more difficult to recover compensation from the water park. However, if the park’s negligence also played a role, you may still have a viable claim. An experienced attorney can help evaluate your case and advise you on your legal options.

3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a water park accident?

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit varies by state but is typically between one and three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you don’t miss any important deadlines.

Key Takeaways

1. Water park accidents are more common than many people realize, with thousands of injuries and multiple fatalities reported each year.
2. Common causes of water park accidents include ride malfunctions, improper design and construction, poor maintenance, operator error, and guest negligence.
3. Injuries sustained in water park accidents can range from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening head trauma, spinal cord damage, and drowning.
4. There is a lack of consistent safety regulations governing water parks, with oversight varying widely by state and some major parks exempt from inspections.
5. Victims of water park accidents may be able to pursue legal claims against negligent parks or ride manufacturers, but these cases can be complex and challenging.
6. If you are injured at a water park, seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to park authorities, document the scene, and consult with an experienced attorney to protect your legal rights.