Theme parks offer a wonderful sense of fun, adventure, and quality entertainment. When we think of an accident at a theme park, we may think of something tragic, like a roller-coaster disaster or visitors trapped in a malfunctioning ride. Fortunately, however, such accidents very rarely occur and most injuries sustained in amusement parks are rather minor, such as slip-and-fall accidents which occur in all types of locations.
Theme parks differ from other commercial establishments in a few ways due to having both indoor and outdoor areas within them, as well as many steps, ramps, and elevated surfaces. For example, a slip-and-fall accident may occur after a visitor has been in line for a ride outside in the bright sunlight and enters a dimly-lit restaurant; similarly, a visitor leaving the restaurant and stepping outside may be briefly stunned by the sunlight. In outdoor areas where food is served, any spills, garbage, or debris pose greater slipping hazards than in indoor areas.
The substances and circumstances which lead to slip-and-fall accidents in amusement parks are quite similar to those of other establishments: food and drinks, garbage, wet floors, and so on. Visitors of amusement parks should also be wary of puddles of vomit which have yet to be cleaned.
Although such circumstances should be “reasonably anticipated” by the park’s visitors, the owners still owe them a duty of care by protecting against risks of common accidents, such as slip-and-falls. All visitors of amusement parks fall into one of two categories: invitees and trespassers.
Invitees are visitors who were admitted into the park and in an area open to customers at the time of the accident and resulting injury, while a trespasser is an individual who sneaks onto the premises or enters an area which is restricted or otherwise closed to the public. Of course, the duty of care owed to trespassers by property-owners is less significant than the duty owed to invitees and is generally restricted to protection against deliberate and unnecessary harm.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident at an amusement park or other commercial establishment, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.