Disney Sued for $2M After Wave Pool Incident at Typhoon Lagoon

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A mother residing in New York is suing Disney, alleging an injury she sustained at one of their busiest water parks – Typhoon Lagoon. The plaintiff, Kimberly Panetta, a mother of two from Long Island, has initiated legal action against Disney, demanding $2 million in compensation. She asserts that she was forcefully hit by a massive wave in the Surf Pool during her visit in April 2022.

While spending a day at Typhoon Lagoon, I found myself unexpectedly swept up by a powerful wave in the Surf Pool, often known among visitors as the “wave pool.

The Surf Pool is a standout feature at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, as per Disney’s official site, it is characterized as one of its most distinctive attractions.

Plunge into the inviting, warm water, where soft waves kiss the pristine sandy shoreline. Venture further out and tune your ears for the mighty “boom” and joyful shrieks of swimmers as small ripples transform into powerful surf. Keep your eyes open and sense the growing anticipation as a towering wave approaches—brace yourself, it’s time to ride! Prepare for an exhilarating body surfing experience as you’re carried gracefully to the shore on the back of a massive wave. With a steady stream of swells, you’ll undoubtedly catch an impressive wave that’ll leave you breathless with excitement!

Disney recommends that guests should always keep a close eye on their children, as well as anyone who may not be confident swimmers.

In her court case, Panetta alleges that a massive wave pulled her and her 3-year-old daughter forcefully underwater for multiple feet. According to legal documents, the wave struck her from the side with tremendous power, flattening her and causing her body to slide across cement or gunite, resulting in severe and deep “road rash” or abrasions.

Images accompanying the report depict Panetta enjoying time at the park with her kids prior to the event, as well as pictures of her subsequent injuries. In photos made available to the public, the faces of her children are deliberately obscured to preserve their privacy.

As a fervent admirer putting words to my own experience, I can say that Panetta’s account resonates deeply with me. After that incident, I found myself hobbling around, wrapping bandages, and applying creams, all far from the carefree bliss of our eagerly awaited Disney vacation. The joy of swimming and exploring with my family was cruelly snatched away by the injuries I sustained, leaving an indelible mark on our once-anticipated trip – a mark that now lingers as a painful reminder of its ruin by my recovery.

Frank Panetta, who is a lawyer like his wife, underscored that if not for her quick action of pulling their daughter up above the wave, they could have been in grave danger. He also stated that Disney’s reaction to the incident, offering only a $250 credit, seemed extremely insufficient given the gravity of the situation.

Adding to an expanding catalog of injury claims, the Disney Typhoon Lagoon legal dispute arises from incidents occurring at the renowned water park.

In May 2024, Laura Reyes-Merino filed a separate legal action following an incident on Humunga Kowabunga, Typhoon Lagoon’s steep 214-foot body slide. Despite the ride not utilizing tubes, Reyes-Merino asserted that she was violently tossed around within the slide, resulting in severe harm. Her lawsuit argued that Walt Disney World neglected to alert riders about potential hazardous conditions they were aware or should have been aware of.

The filing was made not long after another legal action, this time against Disney, stemming from an incident at Humunga Kowabunga in 2019. During this event, it’s said that Emma McGuinness experienced a rather uncomfortable situation – a painful wedgie – while using the slide. Much like their previous lawsuit, the McGuinnesses pointed out issues related to the park’s safety warnings and the design of the ride.

As I reflect upon the recent legal complications surrounding Typhoon Lagoon, I can’t help but ponder if Disney might take a fresh look at their water park rides and safety protocols for guests. After all, it’s crucial that we enjoy our visits to the Magic Kingdom while feeling secure and protected.

Regarding Kimberly Panetta’s legal action against Disney, it aims to recover expenses related to her medical treatment, mental anguish, and the spoiled holiday she alleges was caused by a distressing wave accident that occurred unexpectedly. At this point, Disney has chosen not to make any public statements concerning the case.

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2025-04-28 19:57