A woman from Michigan has filed a lawsuit against Cedar Fair, a major amusement park company, claiming that she sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2021 when a part of a roller coaster fell on her. The incident occurred in August 2021 at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, where a small metal object from the Top Thrill Dragster roller coaster struck Rachel Hawes.
After the incident, Hawes was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Cedar Point’s spokesperson stated that a small metal object became detached from a train on the roller coaster as it was finishing its ride. Following the incident, Cedar Point announced in September 2022 that the Top Thrill Dragster roller coaster would be permanently closed.
Despite a state investigation finding no evidence of illegal actions by the park or concerns about the ride’s safety, Hawes filed a lawsuit claiming she suffered serious and permanent injuries, including skull fractures and traumatic brain injury. The lawsuit alleges that Cedar Point failed to properly inspect and maintain the roller coaster.
Hawes’ medical expenses have already surpassed $2 million, with anticipated future medical costs exceeding $10 million. The lawsuit states that she will require assistance with daily activities for the rest of her life. Hawes is seeking compensation from Cedar Fair for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning potential, physical pain, and more.
The lawsuit was filed in the Erie County, Ohio, Common Pleas Court. Cedar Fair has not yet provided a comment on the matter. Fox News’ Danielle Wallace and Lucas Manfredi contributed to the original report.
Ohio Amusement Park Sued by Michigan Woman for Traumatic Brain Injury
Introduction
A Michigan woman has filed a lawsuit against an Ohio amusement park, claiming that a falling roller coaster part caused her to suffer a traumatic brain injury. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of amusement park rides and the responsibility of park operators to ensure the well-being of their patrons.
The woman, who has chosen to remain anonymous, visited the amusement park with her family for a day of fun and excitement. However, what was supposed to be a thrilling experience turned into a nightmare when a piece of the roller coaster track came loose and struck her on the head, causing her to lose consciousness.
The Lawsuit
The Michigan woman has hired a team of experienced attorneys to represent her in the lawsuit against the amusement park. The lawsuit seeks compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages as a result of the traumatic brain injury.
The lawsuit alleges that the amusement park was negligent in maintaining and inspecting the roller coaster, leading to the dangerous condition that caused the woman’s injury. The park has denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to vigorously defend itself in court.
Amusement Park Safety
Amusement parks are supposed to be places of fun and entertainment, but accidents can and do happen. It is important for park operators to prioritize safety and regularly inspect and maintain their rides to prevent injuries and accidents.
As a visitor to an amusement park, there are some safety tips to keep in mind to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Always follow the instructions of ride operators and adhere to height and weight restrictions.
- Stay seated and keep all body parts inside the ride at all times.
- Secure loose items, such as hats and glasses, before riding on a roller coaster.
- Report any safety concerns or incidents to park staff immediately.
Case Studies
Unfortunately, accidents at amusement parks are not uncommon. In recent years, there have been several high-profile incidents involving injuries on amusement park rides, including a deadly incident at a theme park in Ohio.
In 2017, a ride malfunction at the Ohio State Fair led to the death of one person and injuries to several others. An investigation found that the ride had not been properly inspected and maintained, leading to the tragic accident. The incident sparked discussions about the need for stricter regulations and safety standards at amusement parks.
First-Hand Experience
As someone who has visited amusement parks in the past, I can understand the excitement and thrill that comes with riding on a roller coaster. However, it is crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of the risks involved in such activities.
I urge all park visitors to pay attention to safety instructions, report any concerns to park staff, and advocate for stricter safety regulations to prevent accidents and injuries in the future.
In conclusion, the lawsuit filed by the Michigan woman against the Ohio amusement park serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in the amusement park industry. It is crucial for park operators to take responsibility for the well-being of their patrons and ensure that their rides are safe and properly maintained. By following safety guidelines and advocating for stricter regulations, we can all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience at amusement parks.
