Crack in North Carolina Roller Coaster Forces Shut Down at Carowinds
After a large crack was spotted in the beam of a North Carolina Roller Coaster, Fury 325, was forced to shut down by Carowinds theme park. The 325-foot-tall roller coaster opened in 2015 and is said to be the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in North America. Fury 325 at the Charlotte, North Carolina theme park Carowinds is an unrivaled roller coaster that combines jaw-dropping heights, record-breaking speeds, and immersive theming. Carowinds was forced to shut down the Fury 325 coaster after park personnel was made aware of a crack at the top of a steel support pillar.
The crack was discovered by a civilian, Jeremy Wagner, who was visiting Carowinds amusement park with his family. Wagner recorded a video of the Fury 325 coaster remaining operational with the large crack separating the coaster’s track from its support pillar when a coaster car zips by. “I was trying to shoot the video, and my hands were shaking because I knew how quick this could be catastrophic,” Mr. Wagner said. Wagner stated that he reported the crack to park officials and showed the recorded footage, but learned that the ride was not immediately shut down. Thankfully no riders sustained personal injuries while the coaster remained operational. The ride will remain closed while it undergoes repair.
What are the dangers of riding roller coasters?
While roller coasters offer a thrilling experience, riders must acknowledge the inherent dangers they present. Roller coasters, with their thrilling loops, exhilarating drops, and high-speed twists, have long been a staple of amusement parks worldwide. However, amidst the screams of joy, it is essential to recognize the potential dangers lurking behind the excitement. While roller coasters are designed with safety measures in place, accidents and injuries can still occur.
Mechanical Failures and Maintenance: The first danger to consider lies in mechanical failures and inadequate maintenance. Roller coasters are complex machines that require regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance to ensure safe operation. However, when amusement park owners and operators neglect these crucial procedures, accidents can happen. Issues like faulty brakes, broken tracks, or malfunctioning safety restraints can lead to catastrophic consequences for riders. Regular, thorough inspections and adherence to strict maintenance protocols are imperative to prevent such mishaps.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The high-speed, rapid changes in direction experienced during roller coaster rides can put tremendous strain on the body, particularly the neck. Whiplash, a common injury, occurs when the head is violently thrown forward and backward. The abrupt and forceful nature of these movements can lead to neck sprains, strains, and even more severe cervical spine injuries. Riders with pre-existing conditions or insufficient neck support may be at an increased risk. Ensuring proper headrests and employing neck braces for individuals vulnerable to such injuries could significantly reduce the likelihood of harm.
G-Force and Physical Stress: As roller coasters defy gravity, riders are subjected to powerful G-forces that can have adverse effects on the body. Rapid acceleration and deceleration can cause excessive strain on internal organs, muscles, and blood vessels. High G-forces can lead to dizziness, loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases, stroke or heart attack. Individuals with cardiovascular issues, hypertension, or other medical conditions should exercise caution when considering roller coaster rides. Understanding the G-force limits and screening riders for potential health risks are vital safety precautions.
Ejection and Falling Objects: Riders must also be wary of ejection and falling objects during roller coaster rides. Despite strict safety measures, there have been instances where riders have been ejected from their seats due to improper restraints or mechanical failures. Additionally, loose articles such as phones, hats, or glasses can become projectiles, posing risks to both riders and bystanders. Strict adherence to safety guidelines, including secure storage for personal belongings, is crucial to minimize these hazards.
Emotional and Psychological Effects: While physical injuries are apparent dangers, the emotional and psychological toll of roller coaster accidents should not be overlooked. Survivors of roller coaster accidents may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression due to the trauma they endured. The fear of reoccurring incidents or even getting on a roller coaster again can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Offering appropriate psychological support and counseling services to victims can aid in their recovery and help them overcome the emotional aftermath of such accidents.
Personal Injury Attorney Handles Roller Coaster Injuries
Bice Law is a North Carolina and South Carolina law firm with an experienced Personal Injury Attorney who handles roller coaster injuries. Injuries can occur on roller coasters and it can be a very traumatic experience to the injury victims. If you or someone you know has been injured while riding a roller coaster, contact the Personal Injury Attorney of Bice Law for help. At Bice Law, we can help you determine who we believe to be at fault for the injury. We will look to a number of sources to help you determine liability including but not limited to statements made at the scene by witnesses and parties involved. We serve families across both North and South Carolina. If you have been seriously injured while riding a roller coaster, take the first step to protect your legal rights – contact the personal injury firm of Bice Law today by calling 877-BICE-877 or submit an online request to get a free consultation with a personal injury attorney who handles roller coaster injuries. Results are how we measure success – we’ve built a strong reputation both in and out of the courtroom, and we’ll put our experience and expertise to work on your behalf.
Don’t hesitate, there s only a 3-year window to file a lawsuit for your personal injury claim. If you or someone you know has been injured while riding a roller coaster in North Carolina or South Carolina, call the experienced personal injury lawyer at Bice Law. We’re ready to fight for your rights and get you the compensation that you deserve. Our Frontline Injury Team fights for our clients from consultation to settlement, and we don’t get paid unless you do. Call Bice Law today!
