Walt Disney World is famous for creating an environment where everything feels carefully planned, polished, and intentionally designed. From the landscaping to the pavement guests walk on, Disney’s parks are built to feel immersive and seamless. That’s why a new lawsuit involving Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A. is catching so much attention.
According to a legal complaint filed in Florida, a Kentucky woman claims she suffered serious injuries after tripping on the embedded trolley tracks that run through Main Street. The tracks, which are part of the street’s classic design, have been a recognizable feature for decades. But now, they’re being described as a dangerous hazard in court documents.
Guest Claims Tracks Caused Serious Injury
The lawsuit was filed by Rhonda Smith, who alleges her foot became caught in the trolley track area, leading to what she described as serious and permanent injuries. In her complaint, Smith claims the tracks created gaps and uneven walking surfaces that made the area unsafe for pedestrians.
Smith’s lawsuit accuses Walt Disney Parks and Resorts of negligence, arguing that Disney failed to maintain the area properly and did not provide adequate warnings about the potential danger. She is reportedly seeking damages exceeding $50,000, and she also requested that the case be brought before a jury.
While lawsuits involving theme parks aren’t uncommon, what makes this one stand out is the location. Main Street, U.S.A. is one of the busiest walkways in all of Walt Disney World, packed daily with families, strollers, mobility devices, and guests trying to catch parades or fireworks.
Disney Pushes Back With a Strong Defense
Disney responded to the lawsuit in January, and the company is not backing away from its position.
In its response, Disney argues that the trolley tracks are “open and obvious,” meaning guests should be able to see them clearly while walking. Disney claims Smith had a responsibility to pay attention to her surroundings and use reasonable care for her own safety.
The company also argues that Smith may be more than 50% responsible for her injuries, which could significantly impact the outcome of the case if the court agrees.
Disney’s legal response goes even further by suggesting that Smith’s alleged injuries could have been caused by other medical issues, rather than being directly tied to the incident involving the tracks.
Why the Main Street Tracks Matter
This situation is about more than a single lawsuit. The trolley tracks are part of Main Street’s turn-of-the-century theming and are tied closely to the visual identity of Magic Kingdom.
If Disney were ever forced to remove them, it would change the look and feel of one of the most iconic areas of the park. It could also raise concerns about what other long-standing design features might eventually be questioned for safety reasons.
For now, the tracks remain in place, but the lawsuit has sparked renewed debate among fans about whether Disney should prioritize aesthetics or take additional steps to reduce potential trip hazards.
What Happens Next
Both sides have requested a jury trial, meaning this case could continue for quite some time. While it’s unclear how the court will rule, the lawsuit has already put a major spotlight on something most guests have walked over countless times without thinking twice.
Now, those Main Street trolley tracks are no longer just part of the scenery. They’ve become the center of a legal battle that could influence how Disney handles safety concerns moving forward.
