A well-known New Jersey amusement and water park complex is now confronting a legal challenge after a visitor experienced a grave injury, blaming the establishment for carelessness. A trip to one of America's biggest indoor entertainment venues sent a man in his thirties to the hospital due to an incident purportedly brought about by careless handling of a water park ride, resulting in lasting injuries. The visitor is now pursuing a legal suit seeking compensation for the harm he endured, putting the entire entertainment complex under legal scrutiny.
The resident of Bergen County has allegedly initiated a lawsuit against American Dream Mall, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. He asserts that he sustained a leg fracture while enjoying one of the slides at DreamWorks Water Park, the largest indoor water park in North America.
Xavier Velez, a 30-year-old man from Elmwood Park, claims that his leg fractured when he hit the water in a shallow receiving pool at the end of the slide called Zany & Zanier Zigzag. The incident occurred at a high velocity on July 2, 2021, during his visit to the water park in the mall complex.
The legal suit, lodged on June 22, 2023, at the Superior Court of Bergen County, asserts that the landing pool was insufficiently filled and/or poorly designed/made, leading him to crash into the base of the pool, causing a severe leg fracture that required surgery and left him with permanent injuries.
Besides American Dream, the lawsuit mentions Triple Five, the owner of the mall, the slide's manufacturer, and anonymous workers deemed accountable for water park equipment maintenance. Velez's lawyers argue that the water park employees operated the water slide negligently, fully aware or at least should have been, that guests could be exposed to potential harm upon hitting the allegedly under-filled splash pool.
The extent of damages sought by Velez in the lawsuit remains undisclosed.
What to Do After Getting Injured at a Water Park, Amusement Park, or Theme Park
When visiting a water park, amusement park, or theme park, the last thing anyone expects is to get injured. However, accidents do happen, and when they do, it's important to know what steps to take. Here's a simple guide on what to do after getting injured at a recreational venue:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Prioritize your health above everything else. If you're seriously injured, seek immediate medical help. The park's first-aid station can provide initial treatment, but it's recommended to visit a hospital for a thorough check-up.
Report the Incident
Report the injury to park management as soon as possible. Provide a detailed account of what happened, when, and where. This will initiate an official record of the incident.
Document the Incident and Injuries
Collect as much evidence as you can about the incident. This may include photographs of your injuries, the location where the incident happened, and any potential hazards or contributing factors. Also, if there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information.
Preserve Evidence
If possible, keep the tickets, wristbands, receipts, or any other items that can serve as proof of your presence at the park on the day of the incident.
Avoid Providing Detailed Statements or Signing Documents
Be cautious about what you say to park authorities or insurance companies. Do not sign any documents without fully understanding their contents or consulting with a legal advisor.
Contact an Attorney
Consider seeking legal advice, especially if your injuries are severe. An attorney who specializes in personal injury law can guide you on the best course of action and help you understand your rights.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatments and Expenses
Maintain a detailed record of all medical treatments, diagnoses, expenses, and any work missed due to the injury. This will be important if you decide to seek compensation.
Remember, safety should always come first. Always follow the rules and guidelines provided by the park to minimize risks. However, if you do find yourself injured due to someone else's negligence, these steps can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the proper care and compensation you may be entitled to.