In 2022, a Florida woman suffered severe injuries at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge after riding a water slide, igniting questions about premises liability and guest safety at theme parks. The lawsuit claims negligence on Disney’s part, emphasizing the need for proper safety measures to prevent such incidents. Premises liability ensures property owners protect visitors by maintaining safe environments, but accidents still occur when standards are not met.
You may have questions about your rights if you’ve experienced an injury at Disney World or another amusement park. At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, PA, our skilled team understands the intricacies of Florida premises liability cases. Keep reading to learn why this Disney lawsuit is noteworthy.
What Happened in the Disney Water Slide Case?
The incident occurred on June 17, 2022, when Sarah Carney, a Polk County resident, rode a water slide at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. According to the lawsuit, Carney sustained significant injuries, including bodily pain, disability, and emotional distress, after hitting the pool’s bottom at the slide’s end. The injuries led to ongoing medical treatments and other damages.
The complaint, filed in Orange County, seeks more than $50,000 in damages. Carney’s case highlights the potential dangers of theme park attractions, where lapses in safety measures or improper warnings can lead to life-altering injuries.
How Common Are Amusement Park Accidents?
Amusement parks entertain millions annually, but not without risks. According to the National Safety Council, there were 1,281 ride-related injuries at amusement parks across the US and Canada in 2021. This figure may be conservative due to inconsistent reporting standards across states.
In Florida, home to some of the world’s most popular parks, injuries at attractions often include broken bones, concussions, or worse. While parks promote thrilling experiences, they must prioritize guest safety through rigorous maintenance and clear communication of risks.
The Premises Liability Argument in This Case
Florida law holds property owners responsible for legally ensuring visitors’ safety on their premises. In Carney’s case, the lawsuit alleges Disney failed to:
- Adequately warn riders about the water slide’s risks
- Maintain the slide in a safe condition
- Provide appropriate safety measures, such as protective gear or signage
To pursue a premises liability claim, the injured party must show that the property owner failed to address known hazards. Carney’s legal team contends that Disney could have avoided her injuries by implementing safer practices.
Balancing Responsibility: Comparative Fault in Florida
Florida follows a comparative fault system, which means that responsibility for an accident can be divided between the parties involved. If the court finds Carney partially responsible for her injuries, her compensation may be reduced by her percentage of fault.
For example, if Disney is found 70% at fault for failing to ensure slide safety and Carney is 30% at fault for misjudging the slide’s risks, her potential damages could be reduced by 30%. Understanding this concept is essential for anyone pursuing an injury claim in Florida.
Why This Premises Liability Case Matters
This lawsuit underscores the broader implications of guest safety at theme parks. Property owners, particularly those managing attractions like Disney, must maintain high safety standards. When these expectations are not met, serious accidents can occur, leaving victims to cope with losses, like:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Emotional distress
For visitors, this case serves as a reminder to remain vigilant about safety instructions and to report hazards. For property owners, it highlights the importance of conducting routine inspections, addressing risks, and communicating potential dangers to guests.
Speak With a Premises Liability Attorney at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis
If you’ve been injured at an amusement park, water park, or similar venue, we highly encourage you to consult with a knowledgeable premises liability attorney. The legal team at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, PA, retain over 100 years of combined legal experience with the knowledge and resources to advocate on your behalf.
At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, PA, our talented personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the premises liability process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve while focusing on your recovery. To explore your legal options, call our Orlando office at (407) 843-7060 or complete our contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Legally Written and Reviewed by a Managing Partner
Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis
Our content is written and reviewed by our founding attorneys Butch Wooten, Orman Kimbrough, Mike Damaso, and Tom Dennis. With over 100 years of combined courtroom experience, they’ve successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases across Florida. Whether you’re a Florida resident or an out-of-state visitor injured in Florida, we’re dedicated to providing clear and reliable information to help you navigate your legal options confidently.