Los Angeles, CA – A federal court in California has awarded 74-year-old Pamela Morrison $7.25 million after she suffered severe injuries from a fall at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Hollywood. The incident occurred in September 2022 when Morrison was visiting the park with her grandson.
Documents reveal that the accident happened after Morrison’s safety harness on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride malfunctioned. As she attempted to disembark, she slipped on the moving walkway, suffering a crushed spine, a lower back fracture, and extensive muscle tears around her hip.
Morrison described the traumatic experience in court documents, noting the disorienting effect of stepping from the moving belt to a stationary floor, which caused her to lose her balance and fall.
The lawsuit detailed numerous allegations of negligence against Universal Studios, including premise liability and negligent hiring and supervision, asserting that the park had failed to maintain safe conditions on one of its most popular attractions.
In defense, lawyers for Universal Studios argued that Morrison had not exercised reasonable care, suggesting her attention was divided as she was focused on her grandson rather than her steps. Additionally, the defense highlighted video evidence to support their claim of Morrison’s contributory negligence.
During the trial, safety expert Ban Choi testified that the design and operation of moving walkways could inherently disrupt a person’s stability, especially when exiting sideways under rushed conditions, such as those experienced by Morrison.
The jury ultimately sided with Morrison, granting her $250,000 for economic losses, $2 million for past non-economic damages, and an additional $5 million for future non-economic damages.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which opened in 2016 at Universal Studios Hollywood, is promoted as a thrilling motion simulation experience that guides visitors through the magical halls of Hogwarts.
This incident raises important questions about safety measures and ride operations in theme parks, particularly with attractions involving complex mechanical elements and moving walkways.
The outcomes of this case might prompt other amusement parks to revisit their safety protocols and training procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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