Recently, a fatal rollercoaster accident claimed the life of a veteran had lost both of his legs in the Iraq war. Sergeant James Hackemer died when he was ejected from a 208-foot tall rollercoaster that reaches speeds of as much as 70 miles per hour. He was only 29 years old. With many Cincinnati families flocking to amusement parks this summer, parents are understandably concerned about the possibility of amusement park injuries and about what would happen if their children were to be hurt in an amusement park accident.

In Ohio, property owners are typically responsible for the safety of their guests and patrons who are legally on their property. In legal jargon, this concept is known as premises liability. In practice, this means that a person who is injured by a dangerous condition on another person's property can seek compensation from the property owner for the injuries he or she suffered.

Amusement parks entertain their patrons with rides that are designed to provide the illusion of danger. However, amusement parks are no exception to this legal principle. Amusement park owners have a legal responsibility to keep their premises and their rides in a safe condition for their customers. In addition, Ohio amusement park owners have a duty to look out for the safety and protection of their customers.

Regarding amusement parks, this rule specifically applies to rides and other devices within the park. Rides must be maintained properly and they must be in a safe condition. In addition, if a safety statute or regulation is violated, that can be used as evidence of an amusement park owner's negligence.

When a person is injured in an Ohio amusement park because the amusement park failed to meet its legal responsibilities, the injured person has the right to seek compensation. If you have questions about an amusement park injury in Ohio, an experienced personal injury attorney can help.

Sources: Reuters, "Double amputee's theme park death reignites regulatory fight," Eric Johnson, 7/11/2011

76 Ohio Jur. 3d Premises Liability ยง 60, retrieved 7/13/11 via Westlaw.com (subscription)