Los Angeles — In a notable legal decision, a federal jury recently awarded $7.25 million to a 74-year-old woman from Arizona after she sustained severe injuries at Universal Studios Hollywood. The verdict casts a spotlight on the safety concerns surrounding moving walkways in amusement parks, which are often integrated with attractions for the convenience of guests.
The incident occurred in September when Pamela Morrison was asked to disembark from the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride due to a malfunctioning safety harness. Morrison lost her balance while exiting the moving walkway, leading to a serious fall that crushed her spine and resulted in additional significant injuries to her lower back and hip. This mishap not only caused her physical pain but also impaired her ability to maintain her previously active lifestyle.
The jury found Universal Studios Hollywood liable, rejecting the park’s defense that Morrison was at fault for not paying adequate attention to her surroundings. The damages awarded included $250,000 for economic losses, $2 million for past non-economic damages, and $5 million for future non-economic damages.
This incident brings to light the critical role moving walkways play in amusement park accidents. While designed for efficiency, these systems can pose serious risks if not properly maintained or if their operation is not clearly communicated to park visitors. In Morrison’s case, the combination of the defective safety harness and inadequate instruction for safely exiting the ride contributed to the accident.
Amusement parks are held to a stringent standard of care regarding patron safety. This includes the maintenance of rides and walkways and the provision of clear safety instructions to visitors. The failure of Universal Studios to effectively manage these responsibilities played a significant role in the injury.
To prevent similar incidents, amusement park operators can implement several safety measures, including regular maintenance and inspection routines to ensure the functional integrity of moving walkways. Additionally, clear and comprehensible instructions should be provided to all guests, and adequate warning signs should be displayed in prominent locations. Employee training is also essential, equipping staff with the skills needed to identify potential risks and assist guests effectively.
The importance of maintaining the safety of ride systems, including harnesses and other restraints, cannot be overstated. Regular testing and proper functioning of these systems are crucial in preventing accidents.
Pamela Morrison’s case underscores the potential hazards present even in seemingly benign amusement park settings and highlights the necessity of rigorous safety protocols. For those injured in similar circumstances, it is advised to consult with a personal injury attorney who can assess the viability of a legal claim and support in holding negligent parties accountable.
If you or someone you know has been injured in an amusement park accident, particularly those involving moving walkways or malfunction discrepancies, it is beneficial to seek legal counsel to explore your options. Personal injury attorneys are equipped to advocate on your behalf and navigate the complexities of such cases to secure just compensation.
For more information or assistance with a legal claim following an amusement park injury, contact the experienced attorneys at a reliable law firm.
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