Don’t get taken for a ride

Theme parks are great fun for all the family and, with the right social distancing measures in place, they are the perfect venues for parents and kids to let off some steam after the extended lockdown and get their adrenaline going. However, we have all read horror stories about accidents at theme parks over the years so it is essential that you act responsibly during your visit.

“It is important to remember that theme parks have a responsibility to keep you safe. We’ve all seen the ‘assumption of risk’ warnings that are plastered on every roller coaster and ride, advising people who are pregnant, have a back injury or are sensitive to strobe lights to partake at their own risk.

“One of the main reasons that parks do this is to ensure visitors cannot claim that they weren’t aware of the risks or say that the park was negligent. The same is true this year with the warnings you’ll see everywhere about the risk of contracting Covid-19. All theme parks have to have regulations in place to keep customers and staff safe, such as significantly reduced numbers, a range of hygiene and social distancing guidance.

“Anyone involved in the operation, maintenance, organisation, construction, and design of the theme park needs to comply with Health & Safety requirements. If they fail to do this, and you suffer as a result, then you are entitled to make a claim.

“Unfortunately, however, as we all know, accidents do happen, and more often than not, to young people as these are the park’s most common visitors. If you are a parent whose child has been injured at a theme park, it can be difficult to know what you should do. You can proceed to represent your children up until the age of 18. Normally there is a 3-year period in which you have to commence a claim but with children, the claim would need to be commenced prior to their 21st birthday.

“If you have been involved in an accident at a theme park, it is essential to obtain as much information as possible to present to your solicitor. However, we understand that if the incident is serious, you may not be in a position to do this initially. Your health should always be the main priority but if at all possible, try to gather evidence such as witnesses, photographs, proof of expenses and notes about what happened, as all this will help strengthen your case when dealing with your claim.

If you are concerned about an injury that you or a member of your family has received at a theme park, get in touch with our experienced team today for expert advice on the steps to take. It is essential to obtain as much information as possible to present to your solicitor. If the incident is a serious one, you may not be in a position to do so. Your health should always be the main priority, which is what we would need to focus on initially. However, if possible, evidence such as witnesses, photographs, proof of expenses and making notes of what happened would assist in dealing with your claim.

If you are concerned about an injury you have received at a theme park, get in touch with our experienced team today for expert advice.