Ever Been Injured in a Weird Place?
When we think of being injured, most of us think, of car accidents, slip and falls, or something similar, right? The world is full of possibilities, and accidents can happen in unexpected and unconventional places when you least expect them. In this post, our friends at GSG Law take a look at some interesting and often overlooked situations where a personal injury can occur. From amusement park accidents to sporting accidents, we’ll take a look at how personal injury law can adapt to these unthinkable places.
Amusement Park Adventures: Roller Coasters and Legal Loops
Amusement parks are meant to be places of joy and excitement, but sometimes the thrill goes unexpectedly.
Schlitterbahn Water Park Verrückt Waterslide Tragedy (Kansas, USA, 2016): The Verrückt waterslide at Schlitterbahn Water Park in Kansas was known as the world’s tallest waterslide. However, in 2016, a tragic incident occurred when a 10-year-old boy was killed on the ride. The raft he was on went airborne and collided with overhead netting and metal hoops. The accident resulted in investigations and legal actions against the park’s operators.
Where does the liability lie in a case like this? It is a complex case, for sure. When something like this happens, every piece of information is crucial. We look at product liability, comparative negligence, foreseeability, and on and on.
Petting Zoos and Animal Encounters: When the Cute Turns Ugly
Many families visit petting zoos for a fun day out, but not everyone is aware of the potential risks.
Lion Escape at the San Francisco Zoo (San Francisco, California – 2007):
On Christmas Day in 2007, a Siberian tiger escaped from its enclosure at the San Francisco Zoo and attacked three visitors, killing one and injuring two others. The escape was later attributed to inadequate enclosure design and safety measures.
If you have experienced an injury in an odd place like a zoo, how do you know where to even begin? Seeking legal counsel early is super important. Legal experts know how to look for negligence, inadequacy of enclosures, insurance, and financial responsibility, to name a few. Stay safe at the zoo. Animals at the zoo are naturally wild and still have their instincts, even after being in enclosures for some time.
Adventurous Sports: The Unfortunate Dangers of Skydiving
In 2013, a tragic skydiving accident occurred in Zephyrhills, Florida, involving an experienced instructor, Tyler Turner, and his first-time tandem student, Gerardo Nales. During the jump, a parachute malfunctioned, leading to the deaths of both Turner and Nales. Nales’ family filed a lawsuit alleging negligence on the part of the instructor and the skydiving center, claiming improper securing and faulty equipment.
In personal injury cases, liability is influenced by waivers, safety procedures, and supervision. Waivers can limit liability because they undergo legal examination due to strict safety standards, so they help reduce risk. However, a lack of supervision or neglect can increase liability. Each case requires careful legal scrutiny to determine the viability of a liability claim.
Personal injuries can happen in the most unexpected places, and going through the legal process in odd settings requires a specialized understanding of the law. If you or a loved one have been injured in an unusual place, it’s super important to seek legal help experienced in handling these unique cases. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. They can help you take the first step towards justice in even the weirdest situations.