Credit: Inside the MagicKnott’s Berry Farm has finally settled with a family who sued the Ghost Town theme park back in 2009, 15 years later.
Theme parks are synonymous with laughter, screams of joy, and the thrill of pushing our boundaries on exhilarating rides. However, beneath the facade of excitement lurks a potential for serious injuries. While theme parks implement safety measures, accidents can still occur, leaving lasting physical and emotional scars on guests.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) paints a concerning picture. In 2016 alone, around 30,900 people were injured at amusement parks across the United States. These injuries range from minor bumps and bruises to life-threatening incidents and even fatalities. The sheer volume of injuries underscores the importance of acknowledging the potential dangers that can lurk beneath the surface of theme park fun.
Theme park injuries are not theoretical concepts. They are real occurrences that can have devastating consequences. In 2023, a 10-year-old boy’s day at Disneyland Resort in California turned into a nightmare when he fell from a popular spinning teacup ride, suffering a broken leg. This incident, along with countless others, highlights the vulnerability of guests, especially young children, on seemingly harmless rides.
Just a year prior, in 2022, a 28-year-old woman’s exhilarating roller coaster ride at a Six Flags amusement park in Texas took a tragic turn. She sustained a spinal cord injury, a life-altering consequence of a day meant for fun. Most tragically, in 2021, a young life was cut short when a 4-year-old girl drowned in a wave pool at a Florida water park. These real-life examples serve as stark reminders of the potential dangers that exist at theme parks.
Theme park injuries can stem from a variety of factors, creating a complex web of potential causes. Mechanical failure is a significant concern. Malfunctioning rides can cause riders to be thrown from their seats, ejected from cars entirely, or pinned against machinery. Human error, whether from operator negligence or guest disregard for safety rules, can also lead to accidents.
Guests with pre-existing medical conditions may be unaware of the risks associated with certain rides, putting themselves at greater risk of injury. Finally, inadequate supervision of young children can have disastrous consequences, as they may not fully understand the safety protocols or be able to react appropriately in an emergency situation.
Knott’s Berry Farm, a popular theme park located in Buena Park, California, has also seen its share of guest injuries over the years. These incidents raise concerns about potential safety lapses within the park.
In 2019, a young woman’s theme park fun turned into a legal battle. She filed a lawsuit after falling and fracturing her skull while riding the Hang Glider roller coaster. Her lawsuit alleged inadequate safety measures and a malfunctioning ride restraint, raising questions about the park’s maintenance protocols.
Another disturbing incident occurred in 2018. A 6-year-old boy’s innocent ride on the Timberline Twister roller coaster resulted in a broken arm after he fell out of a moving car.
The lawsuit filed by his parents cited inadequate lap bar design and operator negligence, highlighting potential flaws in both ride design and staff training. Perhaps the most tragic incident occurred in 2015 when a 52-year-old man died after falling from the Peril of the Pendulum swinging pirate ship ride. The cause of the fall remains under investigation, casting a shadow over the park’s safety record.
Theme parks have a legal and moral responsibility to provide a safe environment for their guests. This includes regular inspections and maintenance of rides, ensuring proper training for ride operators, and displaying clear safety signage throughout the park. However, the onus for safety doesn’t solely fall on theme park staff.
Guests also play a vital role in ensuring their own safety and the safety of those around them. Following ride instructions carefully, adhering to height and weight restrictions, and being aware of any pre-existing medical conditions that could be exacerbated by certain rides are crucial steps guests can take. Properly supervising young children is paramount, and any safety concerns should be reported to park staff immediately.
If you are injured at a theme park due to negligence on the part of the park or its employees, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Consulting with a personal injury
Knott’s Berry Farm Settles After 15 Years
While injured guests at a theme park will nearly always be compensated for their injury after suing the theme park, sometimes, it can take years to close that deal, and the money that is needed for medical bills will not come until far after.
Kyle Wheeler was in the front row of Xcelerator when the roller coaster’s launch cable snapped, striking his left calf and sending debris into his father’s face. This is an issue that occurred again, in 2023.
The accident, captured on video, occurred in September 2009. Kyle’s mother, Anita, watched in horror from the ground. Kyle underwent several surgeries and extensive physical therapy, with more medical procedures anticipated. An investigation revealed the accident could have been prevented with proper maintenance, attributing fault to both the theme park and the ride manufacturer, Intamin. The ride has since been modified and reopened.
“Safety is always our No. 1 concern,” said Knott’s spokeswoman Jennifer Blazey. “Our maintenance and ride operations crews work diligently to ensure rider safety.”
As per Head Topics, “Knott’s Berry Farm has agreed to a financial settlement with the family of a 12-year-old boy who was seriously injured during a 2009 accident on the Xcelerator roller coaster. ‘There’s a confidential settlement,’ said Art Morgan, the family’s attorney. ‘We can’t say the amount.’ A Knott’s spokesperson declined to comment on the settlement.”
“This whole experience has been terribly hard on my whole family,” Anita Wheeler wrote online.
“I am overwhelmed with emotion most days.” While Kyle has fully recovered from the accident, according to Morgan, the family’s lawyer, the boy will need a $30,000 surgery later in life to remove scar tissue.
The family has racked up more than $60,000 in medical bills so far, according to Morgan.
More on Knott’s Berry Farm
The story begins in the 1920s with Walter and Cordelia Knott, who leased land and started a roadside stand selling berries, jams, and pies. Their hard work and Cordelia’s famous fried chicken dinners eventually led to the establishment of Knott’s Berry Place in 1928.
To entertain guests waiting for their meals, the Knotts added attractions like a ghost town exhibit, showcasing artifacts from California’s gold rush era. This focus on California’s heritage became a signature element of the park.
Over the decades, Knott’s Berry Farm continued to grow. New rides, themed areas like Fiesta Village reflecting California’s Mexican influence, and live entertainment became staples. The park’s commitment to family-friendly experiences solidified its place as a popular destination.
In 1997, Knott’s Berry Farm merged with Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, which now, has merged into the Six Flags family. While some operational aspects might be shared within the larger company structure, Knott’s Berry Farm retains its distinct identity and brand.
The merger is actually leaving the company to possibly create a new Annual Pass for not only Knott’s Berry Farm, but one that merges America’s 1st theme park with Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Today, Knott’s Berry Farm offers a variety of attractions catering to all ages. Thrilling roller coasters like GhostRider and Xcelerator coexist with classic rides like the Timber Mountain Log Ride.
Entertainment options include stage shows, live music, and seasonal events like Knott’s Scary Farm in fall. Most recently, the park reopened Camp Snoopy. The park still honors its agricultural roots with the Ghost Town Calico Mine Ride and Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, a testament to the park’s heritage.
This year alone, the park has had multiple unexpected closures, many associated with weather.
Knott’s Berry Farm’s success lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. It offers a unique blend of exhilarating rides, historical charm, and family-oriented entertainment, ensuring its place as a cherished California landmark.
Have you ever been injured at a theme park? What happened?