Rider safety may be compromised when amusement parks fail to properly train staff or staff fail to follow proper procedures. Staff also may be reluctant to address sensitive issues such as height and weight standards. Communication gaps continue to exist between operators and passengers.
Warning signs do not provide enough information to allow consumers to make an informed decision concerning the risks associated with roller coasters. The average coaster rider does not possess enough technical knowledge to understand the characteristics of advanced roller coasters. This makes it virtually impossible to make an informed decision concerning the risks of riding a coaster. Signs should be targeted and more specific concerning the risks involved in riding the roller coaster. Information should be articulated in a direct and meaningful way to allow patrons the ability to make an informed decision about the associated risks.
Currently, state and local governments establish safety standards and procedures for amusement park rides operating within their jurisdiction. Many states do not have authorized officials trained to investigate safety and serious accidents. In Florida, pursuant to a May 26, 2000, Memorandum of Understanding with the Florida Department of Agriculture, large amusement parks are exempt from public accident inspection, including fatal injuries. Some amusement-park ride accidents require technical expertise not available at the state or local level. Industry standards are weak in certain areas, particularly child safety.
Representative Ed Markey (D-MA) has introduced H.R. 2514, the National Amusement Park Ride Safety Act of 2009, which would give the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) federal safety oversight of thrill rides at amusement parks. CPSC would have authority to investigate accidents and develop and enforce action plans to correct defects. Operators would be required to report substantial safety hazards to the CPSC. The CPSC would serve as a clearinghouse for accidents and other safety information.
The media highlights accidents playing on visitor's fears. In a press release, "Amusement Ride Safety: Ride Injuries,", the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions estimates that fatalities related to amusement park rides are approximately two per year. Studies have also demonstrated that the accident rate for children's wagons, golf and folding lawn chairs are higher than amusement-park rides.
