A day out at a theme park turned into a nightmare for thrill-seekers at the Florida State Fair on February 17, 2023, when the Enterprise Ride malfunctioned. The ride, which resembles a Ferris wheel, suddenly swung from left to right after its safety mechanism failed, leaving passengers fearing for their lives.
Hanging Upside Down and Holding on for Dear Life
As the Enterprise Ride swung violently, passengers were left holding on for dear life with no seatbelts to secure them in place. Videos of the incident show each carriage going upside down briefly before coming to a complete stop. Passengers were seen hanging completely upside down, with some reporting that the gaps between the bars were big enough to lose their grip and fall.
One passenger, Alexis Cresong, described the harrowing experience on Facebook, saying that everyone was terrified as they hung upside down. She added that she couldn't describe how it felt to see her life flash before her eyes and that God was definitely with them. Another passenger, a mother who was on the ride with her children, said her kids were left traumatized and with bruises.
The Enterprise Ride was immediately shut down following the incident and remained closed for the rest of the fair. Frank Zaitshik, owner of Wade Shows and midway manager of the Florida State Fair, said that the ride's safety mechanisms were activated, causing it to shut down as designed.
What Should I Do If I'm Injured at a State Fair?
State fairs are a beloved American tradition, offering a smorgasbord of fun and entertainment for people of all ages. From thrilling rides and delicious food to mesmerizing performances, it's a time for friends and families to come together and make unforgettable memories. But what happens when the fun takes an unexpected turn and you find yourself injured at a state fair? Don't worry; we've got you covered. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to take if you or someone you love is injured at a state fair.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first: take a deep breath and try to remain calm. It's natural to feel anxious or upset after an injury, but panicking won't help the situation. Instead, take a moment to assess your injuries and determine whether you need immediate medical attention. Can you move without causing more pain? Are you bleeding profusely? If you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of caution and seek help.
Notify Fair Personnel and Seek Medical Attention
Once you've assessed your injuries, it's crucial to notify the nearest fair personnel or staff member. They are trained to handle emergencies and can help guide you to the appropriate medical services on-site. If your injuries are severe or if the fair does not have proper medical facilities, don't hesitate to call 911 or ask someone else to do so on your behalf.
Document the Incident and Collect Evidence
As you're receiving medical treatment, try to document the details of the incident as accurately as possible. Take note of the time and location of the accident, along with any contributing factors that may have led to your injury. If possible, ask witnesses for their contact information and request that they provide a brief statement about what they saw.
Don't forget to take photos or videos of the scene, as well as any visible injuries you sustained. This visual evidence can be invaluable if you decide to pursue a legal claim later on.
Obtain a Copy of Your Medical Records
After receiving medical treatment, be sure to obtain a copy of your medical records. These documents will detail the nature and extent of your injuries, as well as any treatments or medications you received. Having this information readily available can make it easier to prove the severity of your injuries and the expenses you've incurred as a result of the accident.
Consider Consulting with a Personal Injury Attorney
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages. To explore your legal options, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in cases related to state fairs and amusement parks.
Your lawyer can evaluate the strength of your case, help gather additional evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies or other parties on your behalf. Remember, most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations, so you can discuss your case without any financial obligation.
Keep a Journal of Your Recovery Process
As you recover from your injuries, it's essential to keep a journal documenting your physical and emotional progress. Jot down any significant milestones or setbacks, as well as how the injury has impacted your daily life. This information can be vital in supporting your personal injury claim and demonstrating the extent of your suffering.
