Massachusetts water park accident lawyer
When the outdoor temperatures turn warm after the cold winter months, many of us spend leisurely days at water parks in an effort to beat the heat in a relaxing and fun-filled environment. Unfortunately, thousands of victims suffer serious injuries every year in water slide and water park accidents. In some cases, catastrophic accidents involve underwater submersion or drowning, which sometimes leads to wrongful death.
Massachusetts Water Slide Accident Lawyer
The horrific accidents occurring in water parks in Massachusetts and across the United States often leave injured victims and surviving family members facing massive medical bills and lifelong problems. Sadly, many of these accidents are preventable and are often the result of negligence by management, staff members or employees working at the park. This is because many water parks work on tight budgets to ensure their profits and often failed to maintain equipment to ensure the rides operate safely and properly through regular maintenance.
Negligence in New England
Negligent actions on behalf of the water park managers often involve:
• Inadequate supervision,
• Failing to perform proper background checks on potential new employees,
• Failing to hire qualified staff to work at the facility,
• Neglecting to train employees on necessary safety measures and routine maintenance requirements,
• Failing to adequately train personnel on all necessary water safety instructions.
Water parks are designed to mimic the thrills, turns
While water slides in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont provide a fun and thrilling experience, they can also be extremely hazardous, especially when its design does not make safety its main priority. Most slides at water parks are designed to mimic the thrills, turns, drops and speeds of roller coasters. However, unlike riding in a traditional roller coaster, water slide riders have no restraint that provides protection. If the flow of water is too high, riders are easily thrown from the track, increasing the potential of suffering a serious injury.
Ride Safety Violations
Water park accident attorneys recognize that many water parks violate ride safety requirements. These Massachusetts personal injury lawyers will often file a claim for compensation based on premises liability and negligence against the water park owners, managers, supervisors and others. Some of these violations involve:
• A defective amusement ride design
• Negligent maintenance
• Defective water slide
• Water attractions that are under-filled or overfilled
Common Water Slide Injuries
The most common form of injuries obtained on water slides is often caused by negligent ride attendants who do not provide adequate spacing between riders, causing them to collide on the path or at the ride’s end. Many injuries also occur when the water level is too low to accommodate riders entering a pool area at a high rate of speed.
Water park patrons suffer serious injuries in slip and fall incidences when slippery surfaces lack non-skid materials. Additionally, a defective design, improper construction and lack of maintenance can also cause significant water slide injuries.
The most common types of injuries occurring at water parks include:
• Skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Bone fractures
• Spinal cord injury
• Paralysis including quadriplegia and paraplegia
• Chest injury
• Damage to vital organs
• Injury to the neck or back
• Crushing fracture
• Lacerations, cuts and bruises
• Accidental drowning
Preventing water slide accidents is crucial to ensure the safety
Preventing water slide accidents is crucial to ensure the safety of individuals enjoying water parks or similar attractions. Here are some general guidelines to help minimize the risk of water slide accidents:
- Follow Rules and Guidelines:
- Always adhere to the rules and guidelines provided by the water park or facility.
- Pay attention to height, age, and health restrictions for specific slides.
- Supervision:
- Ensure that children are supervised by responsible adults at all times.
- Observe and follow any height or age restrictions for particular slides.
- Proper Attire:
- Wear appropriate swimwear that is suitable for water slides.
- Avoid loose clothing and accessories that could get caught or tangled.
- Obey Instructions:
- Listen to and follow the instructions provided by lifeguards and attendants.
- Wait for your turn and follow the slide entry and exit instructions.
- Health Considerations:
- Individuals with pre-existing health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before using water slides.
- Pregnant women and individuals with heart conditions or back problems may be advised to avoid certain slides.
- No Running:
- Avoid running in the vicinity of water slides and pool areas to prevent slipping and falling.
- Check Equipment:
- Water slide equipment should be regularly inspected for safety.
- Report any damaged or malfunctioning equipment to the park staff immediately.
- Hydration:
- Stay hydrated, especially on hot days, to prevent dehydration and related health issues.
- Know Your Limits:
- Be aware of your own swimming abilities and choose slides that match your skill level.
- Emergency Preparedness:
- Familiarize yourself with the location of first aid stations and emergency exits.
- In case of an emergency, follow the facility’s emergency procedures.
- Weather Awareness:
- Pay attention to weather conditions, and avoid water slides during thunderstorms or other adverse weather conditions.
- Alcohol and Drugs:
- Avoid using water slides under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as they can impair judgment and coordination.
Remember that specific water parks may have additional rules and guidelines, so it’s essential to be aware of and follow the regulations of the particular facility you are visiting.
