Universal Orlando And Six Flags Are Both Being Sued Over Major Roller Coaster Injuries, One Allegedly Leading To Death

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Roller coasters are built to simulate the excitement of peril without exposing individuals to genuine harm or fear. However, due to their complexity, they can potentially cause injuries. It’s worth noting that most roller coaster injuries are associated with malfunctions. Regrettably, in the past couple of instances, lawsuits have been filed over severe head injuries sustained on rides that, as far as we know, were functioning correctly.

The roller coasters at Universal Studios Florida on one coast and at Magic Mountain, the main Six Flags location in Southern California, are both facing issues.

Universal Orlando Coaster Accused Of Injury Ahead Of Removal

This month, a lawsuit was initiated in Florida’s middle district court, targeting Universal Orlando Resort. The suit was filed on behalf of Yolian Velez and Eli Curbelo, stating an incident that occurred at Universal Studios Florida in 2024. In this event, Yolian Velez claimed that the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit’s intense movements caused her head to violently shake and collide with the seat’s headrest. Upon exiting the ride, she alleged immediate symptoms of nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and pain in her head and neck.

It seems Velez asked for medical assistance to be sent to her hotel room at a later time, after which she departed from the resort the following day. Upon coming back to her hometown in Puerto Rico, she was allegedly diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury as well as multiple spinal disc injuries in her neck region.

Without a doubt, Rip Ride Rockit is an exhilarating roller coaster, possibly the most intense at Universal Orlando Resort, until the debut of Jurassic World Velocicoaster more recently. Although it doesn’t actually invert, it comes very close. Since only a lap bar is used for restraint, some may find the experience a bit overwhelming. It’s not my preferred ride at the resort.

Regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit, Universal Orlando can rest assured that Rip Ride Rockit won’t be a concern for them much longer, as it has already been confirmed that the attraction will close later this year. It appears that an entirely new indoor roller coaster is planned to take its place.

Magic Mountain Coaster Allegedly Resulted In Rider’s Death

As a movie critic, I must admit that the controversy swirling around Rip Ride Rockit seems almost trivial in light of the legal battle unfolding against Six Flags due to an incident on their X2 coaster at Magic Mountain. The crux of this case alleges that a rider’s injuries, sustained during the ride, ultimately led to their untimely demise.

2022 saw Christopher Hawley, along with his brother and cousin, taking a ride on the X2 coaster at Magic Mountain. As reported by The Los Angeles Times, Hawley experienced discomfort upon exiting the thrill ride, tripped, and subsequently lost consciousness. Medical professionals allegedly discovered severe internal brain bleeding, leading to Hawley’s unfortunate demise the following day. It has been stated that Hawley was in excellent health before the unfortunate event.

In simpler terms, it’s been claimed that a lawsuit has been initiated against Magic Mountain, accusing them of negligence, an inherent flaw in their roller coaster design, and insufficient warning about potential risks associated with the ride.

It’s not unusual to hear about injuries on roller coasters, but the incidents mentioned here are significantly more severe than typical ones. The mere fact that these two stories surfaced at roughly the same time is just a remarkable coincidence. Despite being roller coasters, they have distinct designs from different manufacturers, and both have been operational for over a decade.

It’s great if it turns out that any potential risks on these roller coasters can indeed be resolved, because no one desires to witness anyone getting injured while enjoying a ride.

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2025-03-21 04:07