How Can Wrongful Death Compensation Be Pursued After a Fatal Carnival Ride Malfunction?

by Staff Blogger | October 6th, 2023

Amusement park safety measures are crucial to avoiding accidents, and proper implementation requires cooperation between the park staff and their visitors. The park must follow all laws and regulations established by the federal, state, and local governments. Even with all legal requirements met, devastating carnival ride accidents still happen, leading to serious injuries and wrongful death cases. In the tragic event of a wrongful death, California amusement park guests and their families deserve an experienced personal injury law firm to stand up for their rights.

Read further in our blog post to learn more about common causes of carnival ride accidents, wrongful death claims, and how carnival ride fatalities are handled legally in California.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims After a Ride Malfunctions

If a person dies in an amusement park accident, their family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit on their behalf. Some damages that can be recovered are:

  • Funeral costs
  • Medical bills associated with the care of the victim
  • Lost support income for family and dependents

Common Causes of Tragic Amusement Park Ride Accidents

If you or your loved one was involved in a tragic ride malfunction, it’s essential to understand these potential causes:

  • Most amusement park accidents result from human error or negligence, such as operator errors, poor ride maintenance, and visitor conduct.
  • Occasionally, an employee’s disregard for safety protocols might result in accidents, which are the employer’s responsibility.
  • The ride manufacturer may be responsible if a mechanical issue caused the accident.

Family and friends of someone lost to such a devasting accident should never try to navigate the process around a wrongful death case on their own. An experienced California wrongful death lawyer can deal with the legal ins and outs, negotiate with insurance companies, and more. Those left grieving should do just that: grieve while a trusted lawyer handles all the details around the case.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Carnival Ride Injury

The following actions should be taken right away if a carnival ride injury occurs:

Immediately Seek Medical Help

The first thing to do if you or someone you know has been hurt on a carnival ride is to get help immediately. Even if the injury looks small, you must consult a doctor to ensure you receive treatment for any injuries that could worsen over time. If you are with a loved one who is unconscious and unable to act on their own, you should take this step on their behalf.

Report the Injury to Park Staff

It’s crucial to notify the park staff about the injury immediately. This step will allow park staff to get you medical assistance quickly and make an official record of the incident.

Consult an Attorney

Speak with an experienced wrongful death lawyer who will explain your legal rights and options if you or a loved one has been hurt on a carnival ride. With the help of an attorney, you can use the legal process to seek compensation for your injuries or seek compensation after the wrongful death of a loved one.

Determine Who Is Responsible

Your lawyer must first review the case details to determine who is responsible for the accident. The park’s owner and staff are accountable for damages if the accident occurred due to carelessness or operator error. The ride’s manufacturer may be accountable if a mechanical issue caused the accident. Regardless of who is liable, it is the responsibility of the lawyer you’ve chosen to establish the facts while you take care of yourself and your family.

Contact Berg Injury Lawyers

To file a wrongful death compensation lawsuit, you should strongly consider hiring a lawyer. A knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer will represent you in a wrongful death lawsuit and assist you in understanding your legal rights and alternatives, identifying the party or parties at fault for the loss of your loved one, compiling evidence to substantiate your claim, and gathering witnesses. They’ll also represent you in court or assist in negotiating a settlement with insurance providers.

It’s critical that you seek legal support if you or someone you know has suffered a loss due to a malfunctioning amusement park ride. Contact Berg Injury Lawyers and our experienced attorneys will provide compassionate legal counsel during this trying time.