California is home to some of the country’s most famous theme parks and attractions, from world-class roller coasters to family-friendly rides. Millions of visitors flock each year to places like Disneyland in Anaheim and Universal Studios Hollywood.
But with heavy crowds, high-speed rides, and complex machinery, accidents can and do happen. In fact, emergency rooms across California regularly treat guests for injuries sustained at amusement parks, ranging from lacerations and sprains to life-changing traumatic injuries.
If you or a loved one has been hurt at a theme park, fair, or carnival in California, the attorneys at Berg Injury Lawyers are here to protect your rights. With over 45 years of experience fighting for injured Californians, we know what it takes to hold negligent park operators, ride manufacturers, and other parties accountable.
Popular Amusement Parks in California
California offers a wide variety of amusement and theme parks that attract millions of visitors each year. Unfortunately, these are also common places where accidents and injuries occur:
- Disneyland Resort: Known as “The Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland and Disney California Adventure draw massive crowds and feature dozens of rides where accidents can occur.
- Universal Studios Hollywood: A mix of thrill rides and studio tours, Universal is one of California’s busiest attractions and sees millions of guests annually, some of whom suffer serious injuries.
- Six Flags Magic Mountain: Famous for its record-breaking roller coasters, Six Flags has had numerous ride-related incidents over the years due to dangerous park conditions.
- Knott’s Berry Farm: A historic California theme park with thrill rides and family attractions, Knott’s has also seen accidents tied to roller coasters and water rides.
- California’s Great America: Located in the Bay Area, this park combines thrill rides, water attractions, and seasonal events where injuries can occur.
What Are Common Amusement Park Injuries?
No one expects to get injured at an amusement park, but unfortunately, many Americans end up in emergency departments on days they thought were going to be fun-filled and carefree.
Amusement park injuries can range from minor to catastrophic, and common examples include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries from roller coasters and sudden ride stops
- Fractures and broken bones from slips, falls, or ride malfunctions
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from falls or being struck by unsecured objects
- Lacerations, bruises, and soft tissue injuries from ride restraints or accidents
- Heat exhaustion and dehydration from long lines and inadequate shade
- Drowning or near-drowning incidents at water parks
What Causes Amusement Park Injuries?
On the surface, amusement parks appear to be completely safe and risk-free. But lurking beneath the surface, there are often many obscured or hidden hazards that can put guests’ health and even their lives at risk.
Several factors can contribute to an amusement park injury, including:
- Ride Malfunctions: Mechanical or electrical failures can cause sudden stops or dangerous ride movements. In March 2025, KTLA 5 reported that a Garden Grove family was suing Six Flags Magic Mountain after their 22-year-old son suffered a fatal TBI while riding the park’s X2 roller coaster after it came to a sudden and violent stop.
- Operator Error: Ride attendants may fail to properly secure restraints or monitor guests while entering or exiting rides. In Feb. 2025, US News and World Report reported that a 74-year-old Arizona woman was awarded $7.25 million after suffering a spinal cord injury from falling while exiting the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, due to operator error.
- Inadequate Maintenance: Poor upkeep of rides, walkways, or equipment can create hazards.
- Crowds and Conditions: Overcrowding, poor signage, or inadequate security can lead to slips, trips, and trampling injuries.
Where to Get Treatment After an Amusement Park Injury in California
If you or a loved one is injured at an amusement park, getting immediate medical care is essential. Many of California’s most popular parks are located near major hospitals equipped to handle emergency situations:
- Disneyland Resort (Anaheim): Anaheim Regional Medical Center is the closest full-service hospital, providing emergency services for guests injured at Disneyland or Disney California Adventure.
- Universal Studios Hollywood (Los Angeles): Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, one of the top-rated hospitals in the country, is located nearby and offers world-class trauma and surgical care.
- Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia): Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital serves the Santa Clarita Valley and is the primary emergency facility for injuries occurring at Six Flags.
- Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park): West Anaheim Medical Center and Providence St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton are close resources for visitors needing urgent treatment.
- California’s Great America (Santa Clara): Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center and Santa Clara Valley Medical Center both provide emergency and trauma services for injuries in the Bay Area.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Amusement Park Injury?
Determining liability after an amusement park injury can be complex, but it’s important, as amusement parks are often quick to deny liability. Depending on the circumstances, one or more of the following parties may be held accountable after an accident or injury at an amusement park:
- Amusement Park Owners: These parties are responsible for ensuring rides are safe, staff are trained, and guests are protected at all times.
- Ride Manufacturers: The companies that design and manufacture rides are liable if a ride’s design or manufacturing defect causes injury.
- Maintenance Contractors: The companies that are hired to maintain rides can be held accountable if negligent maintenance or repairs lead to accidents.
- Employees/Operators: When improper operation of a ride directly causes harm, the people in charge of operating the ride may be held liable.
- Third-Party Vendors: Food stands, games, or temporary attractions can also pose risks if not properly managed, and the third-party vendors who run them may face liability.
What Compensation Can Amusement Park Guests Get After Injuries?
Many people who are injured at amusement parks are too shocked to take action right away, but it’s important to do so, as the injuries caused by attractions and dangerous park areas can be expensive and debilitating.
If you’re injured at an amusement park in California, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages if you are unable to work while recovering
- Pain and suffering caused by physical injuries and emotional distress
- Loss of future earning capacity if injuries result in long-term disability
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one tragically dies from a park-related accident
Contact Our California Amusement Park Injury Lawyers Today
At Berg Injury Lawyers, we’ve fought for injured Californians for more than four decades. If you or a loved one was injured at Disneyland, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Universal Studios Hollywood, or any amusement park in California, you don’t have to face the legal system alone.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We aren’t afraid to stand up to anyone or anything when it comes to getting our clients the compensation they deserve.
