Every 21 seconds someone suffers a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and often those injuries go undetected until a later time. Some TBIs are ‘closed’ with no apparent wound or outer sign, but can lead to serious complications if left untreated. A mild brain injury can occur from violent motions, sudden stops or accelerations; all commonly found on high-speed amusement park rides.
The danger is highest for young children who are susceptible to TBI from rides that are unsuitable for their age. The force of the head whipping back and forth on a ride such as a roller coaster, could result in a TBI from the force alone. The brain is actually being moved inside the skull in a way that could cause damage to the tissue. There are warning signs such as speech or behavioral changes that might occur shortly after a TBI.
These types of injuries are preventable by adhering to the age and height guidelines posted at many rides in amusement parks. The problem is enforcement, where ride operators may not know the exact age of a child, or the parents assure them ‘its ok’. Typically, the child will be insistent to go on the ride, so circumstances can add up to a bad decision that places the child in danger. Ride operators and employees have the discretion to prevent young riders from entering, and if they know that a child is too young then the amusement park could find itself liable for any injuries that occur.
Water slides can also pose a threat where the rider can slam into the sidewalls causing injuries. Almost any ride that involves high speeds and exposes the head can cause a TBI. These injures are not limited to children, and adults can experience the same trauma and symptoms. Some common symptoms of TBI are:
Family members should be observant for these signs after a visit to an amusement park, especially if there were high speed rides involved. Any display of TBI symptoms should prompt a visit to a doctor for an exam.
Lawsuits for TBI related accidents have been limited to sports such as football, where many players are experiencing lifelong disability due to repeated blows to the head. Although the contact can be extreme in some sports, those victims are highly trained adult athletes, and still succumb to TBI related problems. Children at an amusement park are far more vulnerable, and a single blow to the head at high speeds could have devastating consequences. The best policy is to prohibit children from dangerous thrill rides until they are old enough to withstand the extreme forces. Otherwise a fun day at the amusement park could have long lasting consequences.