Credit: Aditya Vyas, UnsplashUniversal Orlando Resort has announced significant changes affecting guests who use mobility devices following the death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala on September 17, 2025. The incident, which occurred on the Stardust Racers attraction at Universal Epic Universe, resulted in Zavala being pronounced dead. According to the Orange County medical examiner, the cause of death was “multiple blunt impact injuries.”
Stardust Racers was immediately closed after the tragic event, and Universal launched a comprehensive technical and operational review in collaboration with local and state authorities. Despite the severity of the incident, the resort had not officially implemented new mobility guidelines until this morning.
Changes for Guests Using Mobility Devices
As of today, guests using mobility devices—including wheelchairs—are required to walk independently in order to experience certain attractions. Previously, Universal allowed guests to take a small step into ride vehicles either on their own or with assistance from a companion. This new policy affects several high-profile attractions at Epic Universe, including Stardust Racers, Dragon Racer’s Rally, and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
Now, we also know that the updated requirements extend beyond Epic Universe, impacting rides at other Universal Orlando parks. Guests visiting Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and the Jurassic World VelociCoaster must now also meet the independent mobility requirement to board.
Operational Implications and Safety Review
The changes highlight Universal’s effort to mitigate risks associated with complex ride experiences for guests with limited mobility. While the resort has not released a detailed public statement on the rationale behind these new requirements, the updates are likely tied to the technical review conducted following Zavala’s fatal incident. Universal has emphasized that ride safety and guest oversight are top priorities, though the new guidelines mark a notable shift in accessibility policy.
Guests who rely on companions for mobility support may now need to adjust their plans, as the requirement to walk independently could limit access to certain attractions. Universal has advised visitors to check ride-specific policies in advance and to speak with Guest Services for guidance regarding accessibility accommodations.
— C (@_ctoilet) October 4, 2025
A Tragic Catalyst for Policy Changes
Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s death served as a catalyst for these policy changes, underscoring the challenges parks face in balancing ride accessibility with safety concerns. While Universal continues to work with local and state officials to ensure all operational and safety protocols are met, the incident has prompted broader discussion about accessibility and risk management for theme park attractions.
As Universal Epic Universe and its surrounding parks adapt to the new guidelines, guests are advised to review the updated rules carefully to ensure compliance and maintain a safe experience. The resort has pledged continued attention to guest safety while navigating the complexities of high-speed and technologically advanced attractions.