How thrilling is too thrilling? Disney’s theme parks are known worldwide for being some of the best in the industry. With millions of theme park visitors yearly, Walt Disney World Resort stands at the pinnacle of theme park entertainment.
Despite maintaining its popularity, the resort, located in Orlando, Florida, has not always been able to avoid controversy regarding its attraction offerings. Over the years, numerous injuries and lawsuits against Disney theme parks have sprouted up.
While most of these incidents can typically be overlooked as a one-off error, certain attractions have been exposed as repeat offenders. One such attraction is the Humunga Kowabunga, located at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.
Two Significant Injuries Recently Reported
Humunga Kowabunga has garnered significant attention in recent months due to two reported injuries sustained by riders on this extreme waterslide. The lawsuits claim that the intense speed and steep drops of the Humunga Kowabunga slide have led to severe injuries, including injurious “wedgies,” internal organ damage, and head injuries among riders.
The plaintiffs argue that the lack of appropriate safety measures, such as lifeguards, has contributed to the number of incidents. Court documents reveal that the cases are centered around the alleged harm caused by the design and operation of the ride, with some alleging negligence on the part of the The Walt Disney Company.
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Earlier this week, Inside The Magic reported on a second lawsuit on the water slide. This rider’s experience ended in an incredibly negative way when she suffered a brain injury on the water slide. The victim was discovered bleeding out in the water at the end of the slide by her fiance.
This incident, which came not long after the viral “wedgie” situation, has led many to believe that Humunga Kowabunga is too much of a risk for theme park guests. For park-goers looking for wholesome fun, the threat of obtaining potentially life-threatening injuries is enough to make them skip the ride altogether.
What Should Disney Do?
Moreover, these lawsuits have raised concerns about the overall safety standards at Disney parks, with some questioning the maintenance and oversight of attractions like Humunga Kowabunga. Families of the injured riders have emphasized the need for stricter safety protocols and improved ride conditions to prevent future accidents.
This latest news has also provided yet another valid case for closing down the attraction entirely. It is hard to believe that Disney would be willing to let more lawsuits of this nature slide. After all, it is beginning to stain Disney’s sparkling-clean reputation.
As investigations continue and more details unfold, the legal proceedings surrounding the Humunga Kowabunga lawsuits are closely monitored by both the public and theme park enthusiasts alike. The outcomes of these cases could potentially impact the operations and regulations of water attractions not only at Typhoon Lagoon but across all Walt Disney Parks.