Staying Safe at Amusement Parks.

Pittsburgh is home to many amusement parks including Idlewild, Kennywood and Sandcastle.  During the summer, residents plan family trips to these amusement parks and others around the country.  It is important for families to know, that although these parks are designed for entertainment, any amusement park can present hazardous conditions if they are not properly maintained, and safety rules are not followed.

Amusement parks are responsible for providing a safe environment for their workers and guests. Rides should be properly maintained and inspected. Debris and garbage should be picked up and security personnel should be available at all times.

As patrons of an amusement park, it is important to follow all rules to avoid a serious injury.

Although accidents at these parks are uncommon, when they do occur the injuries can be severe.  The most common injuries that occur at amusement parks are whiplash, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, lacerations, broken bones and drowning.

Types of amusement park accidents:

• Mechanical failures on theme park rides.
• Missing safety equipment or defective safety equipment.
• Malfunctioning lap bars or safety restraints on roller coasters.
• Exposed electrical wiring which can cause a burn injury.
• Improper assembly of rides.
• Negligent maintenance of rides.
• Inattentive or reckless operator behavior.
• Failure to warn of dangerous areas. (such as recently cleaned floors)
• Serving spoiled food.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, it is important to take your own precautions when visiting an amusement park.  This includes reading all signs and obeying all rules, choosing appropriate rides for your age and health and avoiding any ride you feel looks poorly maintained or the operator is inattentive.

Unfortunately, amusement park accidents can still occur even if you take precautionary measures.  These accidents could be caused by the negligence or carelessness of the park or its employees.

Recovering compensation after an accident.

If you have been injured at an amusement park due to someone else’s carelessness, you may be entitled to compensation. It is a property owner’s responsibility to provide a safe environment for its guests. Contact the attorneys at Berger and Green for a free no obligation consultation at 412-661-1400.