The Ohio Senate recently approved Tyler’s Law, which is a regulation implementing safety changes to amusement rides. The regulation is named in honor of Tyler Duffield, an 18-year-old who was killed in 2017 when the Fireball amusement ride malfunctioned and broke apart at the Ohio State Fair. An investigation later determined that the accident was caused by excessive corrosion, which had not been discovered during routine safety inspections.
Among the various changes that will be implemented by this bill, the regulation will result in more ride inspectors as well as more detailed record-keeping and better access to ride history.
The regulation is now headed to Governor DeWine’s desk. Governor DeWine has already stated that he plans to sign that regulation.
Until this regulation is signed, there are some important safety suggestions that you should remember to follow. I will review some safety tips that you should always remember before you step on an amusement park ride.
Do Not Assume a Ride is Safe
Not all park rides are safe. Tyler’s law will greatly reduce the risk of being harmed in an amusement park ride, but the risk will always exist. As a result, you should remember that whenever you step onto an amusement park ride, there is a risk that you may become seriously injured or even killed.
If a Child is Barely Big Enough, Skip the Ride
Many amusement park ride accidents occur because children are not big enough for a ride or because safety features fail to adequately secure children that are just big enough for a ride. If a child is too young or too small for a ride, do not attempt to bend the rules so the child can ride.
Double Check Straps and Bars
Many rides rely on an attendant to check the security measures for each rider before the ride begins. This does not mean, however, that these straps or bars cannot later come undone. This also does not mean that these measures are always adequately secured. As a result, you must make sure that your safety gear is adequately secured. You should be aware that lap bars will only fit closely around the largest person in the seat, which can leave the child inadequately secured.
Not All Injuries are Immediately Apparent
Not all physical injuries are immediately apparent. Instead, some injuries including concussions and certain brain injuries only become visible a while after the accident has occurred. If you begin to notice any symptoms including nausea, vomiting, disorientation, or blinding headaches, you should immediately take your child to a first aid station. There is a reason these stations are located throughout parks.
Let Me Fight for You
This regulation will not eliminate the risk of amusement ride accidents. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to an amusement ride, call me today. I understand how to navigate Ohio injury law and will remain dedicated to fighting for the results you deserve. Call 877.9944.4373. I am prepared to fight even the toughest case, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
