Theme Park Accident Lawyer: Protecting Your Rights After an Injury

Posted By Nadine Diaz

Florida’s theme parks welcome millions of visitors each year, promising thrills, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen—and when they do, the results can be life-changing. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a theme park accident, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced theme park accident lawyer can help you hold negligent parks accountable and protect your rights. 

Common Causes of Theme Park Injuries 

When most people picture theme park accidents, they imagine catastrophic ride failures. But in reality, many injuries stem from everyday hazards that could have been prevented with proper maintenance and safety precautions. Some of the most common causes include:

       •  Slip and fall accidents:  wet floors, spilled drinks, rainwater, or condensation

       •  Trip hazards:  uneven pavement, loose tiles, or broken walkways

       •  Ride-related injuries:  malfunctioning restraints, operator mistakes, or unexpected jolts

       •  Falling objects:  unsecured fixtures, broken signage, or dropped tools

       •  Negligent maintenance:  faulty lighting, corroded railings, or broken stairs

       •  Failure to warn:  missing barriers or inadequate safety signage

       •  Negligent security:  unsafe crowding, assaults, or poor supervision

       •  Escalator and elevator accidents:  sudden stops, entrapment, or mechanical issues

       •  Food service accidents:  hot beverage burns, spilled liquids, or slick floors 

Where Accidents Happen Most Often 

Some areas of a park carry higher risks than others. Identifying these “hot spots” can help determine whether negligence played a role:

       •  Ride loading and unloading platforms

       •  Escalators, elevators, and moving walkways

       •  Children’s play zones, splash pads, and water areas

       •  Long queue lines and shaded waiting areas

       •  Balconies, decks, and elevated viewing platforms 

What the Epic Universe Tragedy Taught Us 

On September 17, 2025, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala tragically died after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal’s Epic Universe. Officials noted no immediate mechanical failure, but questions about safety protocols, inspection logs, and ride data quickly surfaced. 

This heartbreaking case highlights how important safety standards and accountability are in Florida’s parks. Even when rides appear to function properly, families are often left wondering:

       •  Were proper inspections carried out?

       •  Were restraints secure and functioning?

       •  Was emergency response timely and adequate? 

Sadly, this was not an isolated incident. Florida’s injury reports regularly document dozens of serious accidents at major parks, many involving extended hospitalizations. 

Understanding Premises Liability in Theme Park Accidents 

The legal principle behind most theme park accident cases is called premises liability. While most people don’t search for that term, it’s what makes your claim possible. 

Here’s what it means in plain terms:

       •  Theme parks have a legal duty to keep their grounds safe for guests.

       •  If hazards aren’t fixed, risks aren’t properly warned about, or rides aren’t maintained, the park can be held responsible.

       •  This responsibility—premises liability—is the foundation of most injury claims. 

In short: if the park failed to act responsibly and you were injured, the law may be on your side. 

Tips to Help You Stay Safe as a Guest 

While theme parks must prioritize guest safety, you can also take precautions:

       •  Always follow posted ride and safety instructions

       •  Avoid rides that may worsen existing medical conditions

       •  Wear slip-resistant shoes and use handrails when available

       •  Stay alert for wet or uneven walking surfaces

       •  Keep a close watch on children in crowded or active areas

       •  Report dangerous conditions to park employees right away 

Why Choose Darrigo & Diaz After a Theme Park Accident 

Suffering a serious injury at a theme park can leave you facing overwhelming medical bills, time away from work, and long-term recovery challenges. At Darrigo & Diaz, we are dedicated to protecting injury victims and holding negligent parks accountable. 

Our firm handles a wide range of theme park and premises liability cases, including:

       •  Ride-related accidents and fatalities

       •  Slip-and-fall and trip-and-fall injuries

       •  Claims involving negligent maintenance or security

       •  Accidents caused by unsafe walkways, missing warnings, or inadequate signage 

When you choose Darrigo & Diaz, our attorneys act quickly to gather evidence, consult industry experts, and build a strong case on your behalf. We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and if they refuse to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. 

Schedule your free consultation today by calling (813) 437-5523.