Amusement parks should provide a fun, and more importantly, safe atmosphere for families and thrill-seekers. However, a recent streak of theme park injuries is far from amusing.
A few weeks ago, Abiah Jones, 11, fell 150 feet to her death while on a Jersey Shore Ferris wheel. Her parents report that the ride was lacking in appropriate seat belts or safety restraint devices.
As a personal injury lawyer in Chicago, I have seen first-hand how defective equipment or the negligence of personnel operating that equipment can have treacherous outcomes. However, I am hopeful that this disaster will inspire new legislation that ensures proper safety features on amusement park rides.
Until then,we at HM&M urge you and your family to take proper safety precautions while at theme parks and enjoying the summer sun. Please refrain from rides with mising or unfit safety devices. Legislation to protect Chicagoans from this type of negligence, and ensure summer safety, is a dire necessity.