Orlando Amusement Park Accident Results in Fines for Universal Orlando

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on January 12, 2010

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a $3,750 fine against Universal Orlando for an employee injury last summer. OSHA said that the worker was injured when he was struck by one of the cars on the Dueling Dragons roller coaster, one of the Orlando theme park’s most popular rides. The accident resulted in the worker suffering serious injuries in the Islands of Adventure area of the theme park, a part of Universal Orlando that will become part of the new Wizard World of Harry Potter area of the theme park.

At the time the amusement park accident occurred, a spokesperson for the Universal Orlando theme park said that the situation that caused the accident was independent of the Dueling Dragons ride experience. The spokesperson also said that the amusement park accident occurred before Universal Orlando had opened for business that day. When OSHA issued the citation and fine, they said that preventative measures need to be taken to protect and ensure the safety of workers performing routine safety checks. The area where the accident occurred is known as “the compound,” an area directly below the Dueling Dragons roller coaster where workers conduct routine safety checks and repairs to the ride.

Universal Orlando’s original OSHA fine was supposed to be $5,000, but was lowered to $3,750 in an informal settlement agreement. Universal Orlando has promised to install fencing around the maintenance area, as well as other safety measures.

Orlando’s amusement parks are one of the most popular destinations for people in the U.S. and around the world for fun, thrills and a rich variety of entertainment and recreation. Sadly, for some visitors an enjoyable outing with friends and family can turn into a tragedy when, through no fault of their own, they are injured or killed in an Orlando amusement park accident.

Since 1977, Orlando amusement park accident lawyer James O. Cunningham has been helping amusement park accident victims and their families recover the financial compensation to which they may be legally entitled. This compensation helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages and other accident-related expenses. Mr. Cunningham carefully explains the laws that apply to each client’s situation so that he or she can make informed decisions about the best course of action. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in one of Orlando’s many theme parks, call Orlando amusement park accident attorney James O. Cunningham, today to schedule a free consultation.

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.