A trip to Sesame Place, Hersheypark, Six Flags Great Adventure, or Dorney Park is meant to be a fun day for families, but accidents can happen when safety is overlooked. If you were hurt at a theme park in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, you may have a right to seek compensation, but you must act quickly.
State law may require you to report the injury in writing to the park operator within 90 days. Missing that deadline could limit your ability to file a claim.
When Fun Turns Risky: Common Amusement Park Injuries
Theme parks have a legal responsibility to keep their grounds and rides reasonably safe. But injuries still happen, especially in busy parks or during peak season. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones from slips and falls on wet walkways or loose steps
- Whiplash or back injuries from sudden stops on rides
- Head trauma from falling objects or poorly secured safety bars
- Cuts and bruises from ride malfunctions or sharp edges
- Heatstroke or dehydration from poor crowd control
- Drowning risks at water attractions like Morey’s Piers or Hurricane Harbor
These injuries aren’t just accidents, they may be the result of negligence, poor maintenance, or lack of proper warnings.
Who’s Most at Risk for Injuries at Theme Parks?
Theme parks are designed for fun, but accidents can and do happen, and certain visitors face greater risk than others.
- Children are especially vulnerable to falls, ride malfunctions, or improperly secured restraints. Even a small oversight can lead to serious harm. Little kids are especially vulnerable—their excitement and fearlessness can make them less aware of danger, and park staff don’t always catch every hazard in time.
- Older adults may suffer injuries from slips, trips, or health complications triggered by the heat or physical stress of certain attractions.
- Guests with medical conditions, like heart issues, back problems, or pregnancy, may be at higher risk on high-speed or high-impact rides.
- Improper safety measures can put anyone in danger. If harnesses or restraints fail, the consequences can be devastating.
- Even employees working on or near rides can be seriously injured if safety protocols are ignored.
If you or a loved one were injured at a theme park in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, you may have legal options. But don’t wait—theme park injury claims often come with strict deadlines and legal hurdles.
What to Do if You’re Injured
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for “minor” injuries.
- Tell a staff member and ask for an incident report.
- Submit written notice to the park operator within 90 days.
- Gather photos, witness names, and receipts.
- Contact a personal injury attorney who understands theme park liability.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Big theme park operators like those behind Dorney Park, Sesame Place, or Six Flags often have legal teams ready to dispute claims. Reporting your injury in writing—and getting legal guidance—can help protect your rights before critical evidence disappears.
At the Law Offices of Eric A. Shore, we’ve represented injured clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania for over 25 years. We understand the unique challenges of theme park cases, from proving fault to negotiating with powerful insurance companies.
If your summer getaway turned into a painful experience, don’t wait until it’s too late to take action.
Call: 1-800-CANT-WORK | Visit: www.1800CantWork.com
