Chicago Amusement Park Accident Lawyer

Fair Compensation for Amusement Park Injuries Under Illinois Personal Injury Law

When a day of fun at Navy Pier, Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, or a traveling carnival in Cook County ends in tragedy, a Chicago amusement park accident lawyer from Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help victims and families pursue justice. Amusement park injuries often result from defective rides, unsafe premises, or negligent operators who fail to protect guests. Victims may face staggering medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma, while park owners and insurance adjusters quickly move to limit payouts.

Our law firm has extensive experience holding amusement park companies, ride operators, and manufacturers accountable under Illinois personal injury law. Whether the accident involves a roller coaster malfunction, water park injury, mechanical ride failure, or electrical failure, our attorneys fight for full and fair compensation to cover both immediate expenses and long-term care. We are committed to protecting the rights of accident victims across Chicago and Cook County.

What Makes Us the Best Amusement Park Accident Attorneys in Chicago

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are proud to be recognized among the top Chicago personal injury lawyers for our results and client service. Our firm has been recognized by Super Lawyers, the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and maintains a 10/10 Avvo rating. These honors reflect our standing as one of the best personal injury law firms in Illinois. 

Our experienced personal injury attorneys have successfully handled cases involving roller coasters, water parks, carnivals, and other attractions. We use our experience and resources to hold negligent park owners, operators, and manufacturers accountable while helping accident victims recover the fair compensation they deserve.

$1,799,000 Settlement – Child Injured on Carnival Ride in Chicago

Six-year-old Emily was seriously injured at a traveling carnival in Cook County when she fell from the top of a slide. She suffered significant head injuries that required ongoing medical treatment. An investigation showed the ride operator failed to install protective barriers that would have prevented her fall. The case was strengthened by Emily’s age, the likelihood of long-term care costs, and evidence that the amusement company disregarded established safety rules. With the support of our Chicago lawyers, her family secured a $1,799,000 settlement to cover medical expenses and future needs.

Types of Amusement Park Accident Cases We Handle in Chicago

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our amusement park accident attorneys represent families injured at well-known venues across the city and suburbs. 

Roller Coaster Accidents

Roller coasters are among the biggest draws at major venues like Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, but they also present some of the highest risks. High speeds, sharp turns, and sudden drops put enormous strain on mechanical systems and rider restraints. If a car derails, a harness malfunctions, or emergency brakes fail, passengers can suffer catastrophic injuries. 

Even when rides operate normally, poorly maintained tracks or operator mistakes can cause riders to be jolted violently, leading to head, neck, or back injuries. Our firm has represented families injured in these incidents, holding park owners accountable when thrill rides turn dangerous.

Ferris Wheel and Midway Ride Accidents

Ferris wheels and other midway rides—spinning attractions, tilt-a-whirls, and pendulum swings—are staples at Navy Pier and carnivals across Cook County. While these rides appear less extreme than roller coasters, they are not without risk. Riders have been injured after falling from gondolas, getting trapped in ride mechanisms, or colliding with moving parts. 

In some cases, defective safety bars or improperly latched doors have caused falls from heights. Midway rides at traveling fairs are especially vulnerable to accidents because of frequent assembly and disassembly. Our attorneys have pursued claims where mechanical defects or negligent operation caused lasting harm to riders and bystanders.

Water Park and Pool Accidents

Chicago-area water parks and indoor aquatic centers can be just as hazardous as roller coasters when safety measures are ignored. Accidents on water slides, wave pools, or lazy rivers can lead to concussions, broken bones, or even drowning. Poorly trained lifeguards, missing safety barriers, and slippery surfaces increase the risks. 

Children are especially vulnerable, with cases involving entrapment in suction drains or collisions with other riders on crowded slides. Beyond physical injuries, these incidents can cause long-term psychological trauma for victims who experience near-drowning events. We have handled numerous water park claims, ensuring accountability when operators neglect basic safety protocols.

Carnival and Traveling Fair Accidents

Neighborhood carnivals, school fairs, and traveling amusement shows often operate with less oversight than large, permanent parks. Rides and games are frequently moved from location to location, increasing the chances of mechanical failure during setup. Poor lighting, loose wiring, and worn-out equipment are common hazards. 

We have seen cases where visitors were injured due to collapsing rides, falling debris, or ride operators ignoring height and weight restrictions. These smaller venues may lack adequate medical staff or emergency plans, making injuries more severe when they occur. Our firm works to hold carnival operators accountable when they put profit before visitor safety.

Slip and Fall Incidents

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common amusement park injury claims. Guests may slip on wet surfaces near food courts or pool areas, trip on broken pavement, or fall on poorly lit stairways. Crowded walkways during special events increase the risk of trampling injuries, especially for children and older visitors. 

These accidents can cause fractures or concussions, leaving victims with costly medical bills and lengthy recovery times. We have pursued claims against amusement park operators who failed to maintain safe walkways, arguing that proper inspections and timely repairs could have prevented the injuries.

Electrical and Equipment Malfunction Accidents

Electrical hazards at amusement parks can be catastrophic. Faulty wiring, exposed cables, and poorly maintained sound or lighting systems can lead to shocks, burns, or fires. In some cases, guests have been electrocuted when standing water came into contact with live electrical sources. Traveling carnivals are especially prone to these dangers, as equipment is constantly being moved and reassembled. 

Beyond electrical failures, other equipment malfunctions—such as collapsing stages, faulty ski lifts, ride simulators, or safety gates—have caused serious injuries. Our attorneys investigate these cases thoroughly to identify whether negligent maintenance, defective design, or lack of proper inspection created conditions for the accident.

Negligent Security Incidents

Amusement parks and festivals attract large crowds, making security critical to visitor safety. When park owners fail to provide adequate staffing, surveillance, or crowd control, visitors can suffer harm. Stampedes and trampling injuries may occur during overcrowded events, while fights or assaults can break out when security presence is minimal. 

Children may become lost or vulnerable in chaotic environments without proper supervision. Our firm has pursued cases involving inadequate security at Chicago-area amusement parks, arguing that operators must anticipate risks in large gatherings and take steps to protect guests from foreseeable harm. Negligent security is a clear basis for liability.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Accidents in Chicago Amusement and Water Parks?

Amusement park accidents often stem from preventable causes. 

Mechanical Malfunctions

Defective brakes, motors, or safety restraints on roller coasters, go-karts, and water rides can cause riders to be thrown, trapped, or seriously injured.

Operator Negligence

Distracted, careless, or improperly trained operators create dangerous conditions—such as failing to secure restraints, starting rides prematurely, or overlooking clear safety violations.

Poor Maintenance and Inspections

Traveling carnival rides and older amusement park attractions are prone to mechanical failure when operators skip regular safety checks or rely on worn equipment.

Inadequate Rider Restrictions

Allowing children or smaller riders on attractions without enforcing height, weight, or age requirements exposes them to avoidable dangers.

Insufficient Training and Supervision

Accidents occur when park employees are not properly trained to enforce safety guidelines, monitor crowds, or respond quickly to emergencies.

Lack of Adequate Security

Overcrowded venues without proper barriers or monitoring can lead to stampedes, trampling, and assaults during peak hours or special events.

What Are the Most Common Amusement Park Injuries?

Accidents at Chicago amusement parks, water parks, and carnivals can result in complex injuries that change the lives of victims and their families. 

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head trauma can result from being struck by objects, colliding with restraints, or falling from rides. TBIs often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Falls from significant heights or accidents involving failed harnesses can cause partial or total paralysis, leaving victims permanently disabled due to spinal injuries.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Visitors thrown from rides or injured in slip and fall incidents often sustain fractured arms, legs, or hips, requiring surgeries and extended recovery periods.

Drowning and Near-Drowning

At water parks and pools, inattentive lifeguards and inadequate safety barriers lead to tragic drowning incidents, particularly involving children.

Whiplash and Neck or Back Injuries

High-velocity attractions, such as roller coasters, mechanical bulls, and go-karts tracks, frequently cause whiplash, herniated discs, or soft tissue injuries that may require months of physical therapy.

Emotional Trauma and PTSD

Beyond the physical damage, amusement park accidents—especially for children—can cause lasting psychological injuries, including fear of crowds, nightmares, and anxiety.

What Damages Can Amusement Park Accident Victims Recover in Chicago?

Victims of amusement park accidents often face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial challenges. A successful personal injury claim can help recover medical expenses, including emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and the long-term cost of medications or assistive devices.

If an injury prevents you from returning to work, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity. Beyond financial losses, Illinois law allows victims to seek compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of life—especially important when injuries prevent children or adults from engaging in everyday activities.

In the most tragic cases, when negligence causes a fatality, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death damages to cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the profound loss of companionship. A skilled amusement park accident lawyer can ensure every category of damages is pursued.

What Is the Average Payout for an Amusement Park Accident in Chicago?

According to Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the average payout is approximately $611,976, while the median award is $250,000. Reported case values in Cook County range from $85,000 to $1.5 million.

The value of an amusement park accident case may increase or decrease based on factors such as:

• Extent of medical treatment required and cost of ongoing care
• Permanent disability or long-term complications from the injury
• Degree of negligence by ride operators, park owners, or other parties
• Age of the victim, especially in cases involving children
• Severity of injuries, such as traumatic brain injury or spinal damage
• Wrongful death claims, which often bring higher awards

An experienced Chicago amusement park accident lawyer can help you pursue fair compensation while holding negligent parties accountable.

Example Amusement Park Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$157,918 Jury Verdict – Navy Pier Winter Wonderfest Rock Climbing Injury

In January 2009, Terri Becerra, a 24-year-old cocktail server, attended Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier in Chicago. While preparing to climb a rock wall, she bent down to grab a safety harness placed by the instructor. At that moment, a boy already on the wall fell and allegedly landed on her, causing a head wound. Becerra was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where her wound was stapled. She later developed post-concussion syndrome and was diagnosed with a lumbar disc herniation at L5-S1. Her surgeon testified she would require future surgery.

Becerra sued the Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority (MPEA), arguing the instructor negligently positioned her in a dangerous spot, contrary to MPEA policy. The defense claimed she was comparatively negligent and disputed whether the boy actually struck her. They also argued her spinal injury was pre-existing, offering an orthopedic expert who said she only had a lumbar sprain.

The jury sided with Becerra, awarding $157,918.39, including past and future medical costs, lost earnings capability, pain and suffering, loss of normal life, and emotional distress. While less than the $482,000 requested, the verdict confirmed the MPEA’s liability for failing to ensure safe procedures at a major Chicago attraction.

$125,000 Settlement – Six Flags Great America Ride-Line Accident

On September 16, 2000, Laura Moya, a 37-year-old nurse assistant, was at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee with her family. While waiting with her child for the Red Baron ride, several children rushed onto the attraction. The ride operator closed the gate, which caught Moya’s heel and caused her to trip. She fell on her hands and knees.

Moya sued Six Flags, alleging the operator negligently slammed the gate, leading to her fall and subsequent injuries. She claimed injuries to both wrists that developed into bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome requiring surgery, and aggravation of pre-existing knee issues that required arthroscopy. Her total damages included $75,690 in medical bills and $4,428 in lost wages, plus non-economic losses.

The defense challenged her claims, arguing the incident report suggested other children—not the operator—closed the gate, and that her wrist and knee problems were unrelated. They emphasized her pre-existing arthritis and noted that carpal tunnel usually results from repetitive stress rather than a single fall.

Despite disputes over causation, the case settled for $125,000, compensating Moya for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. The resolution reflected the risks both sides faced in proving or disproving negligence and causation at trial.

$85,000 Settlement – Whirly Ball Bumper Car Collision

On October 16, 2010, Theresa Prock, a 26-year-old homemaker, was injured while playing a bumper car game at Whirly Ball. During the game, Prock’s vehicle was repeatedly rammed by another participant, allegedly in violation of posted safety rules. She claimed the referee employed by Whirly Ball failed to intervene or properly monitor the game.

Prock suffered a torn meniscus in her left knee, requiring two rounds of physical therapy totaling six months. She sought $55,000 for past medical expenses and additional damages for pain and suffering. She emphasized that she had not signed any waiver of liability, which often protects recreational facilities.

Whirly Ball denied liability, arguing notices of the rules and risks were clearly posted and that Prock assumed the risk by participating in the game. The defense also contended there were no independent witnesses to corroborate her account.

Despite these defenses, the case settled before trial for $85,000. While Whirly Ball carried a $1 million insurance policy, the settlement reflected both the value of Prock’s injury and the uncertainties of trial. The resolution highlighted the duty of amusement venues to enforce their own safety rules during recreational games.

Why You Need a Chicago Amusement Park Accident Lawyer

Filing an amusement park accident claim is far more complex than a typical personal injury case. These claims often involve multiple liable parties, including park operators, ride manufacturers, and third-party contractors responsible for maintenance or staffing. Determining who is legally responsible requires an experienced investigation and an understanding of Illinois personal injury law. 

Many cases are filed in the Cook County Circuit Court, where local knowledge and courtroom experience are critical to success. Insurance companies representing amusement park companies routinely try to deny liability or minimize payouts, even when accident victims suffer serious injuries. 

A skilled Chicago amusement park accident lawyer can preserve evidence, build a strong claim, and fight for compensation. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our experienced legal team has the resources and experience to take on theme parks, water parks, and carnival operators to hold them accountable.

How Common Are Amusement Park Accidents?

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 10 deaths occur each year nationwide from accidents on amusement rides at permanent theme parks and traveling carnivals. Beyond fatalities, roughly 6,000 to 8,000 people suffer injuries annually, ranging from broken bones to catastrophic trauma. Despite these alarming numbers, only 16 states currently operate their own ride inspection programs. The CPSC has just 130 inspectors covering all consumer product issues, making state-level oversight critical.

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) surveyed 484 U.S. and Canadian fixed-site amusement facilities in 2021. Of these, 238 facilities responded, representing more than half of all North American park attendance and ridership. Based on the data, an estimated 1,224 to 1,281 ride-related injuries occurred that year. The difference comes from whether attendance or ridership numbers were used to calculate injury rates.

Where Do Amusement Park Accidents Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Amusement park injuries can happen anywhere rides and attractions are offered, from large theme parks to small local fairs. In the Chicago area, some of the most common sites for amusement park accidents include Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, one of the largest theme parks in Illinois, where roller coasters and high-speed rides present serious risks if operators or equipment fail. 

Navy Pier, home to the iconic Centennial Wheel, funhouses, and seasonal attractions like Winter WonderFest, has also seen reported injuries when safety protocols are overlooked. Traveling carnivals and school fairs across Cook County present unique dangers due to temporary setups, mobile climbing walls, and inflatable attractions that are not always properly secured. 

Water parks such as Raging Waves in Yorkville or indoor facilities near Chicago can also cause drowning or slip hazards if lifeguards or staff are inattentive. Wherever families gather for entertainment, lapses in safety can result in devastating accidents.

What Laws Govern Amusement Park Accident Claims in Chicago?

The Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Act (430 ILCS 85/) regulates all permanent and mobile amusement rides in Illinois, including those at Six Flags Great America, Navy Pier, and traveling carnivals across Cook County. It requires annual inspections, proper maintenance, and certified operators. If a park ignores these legal obligations and an amusement park accident occurs, our personal injury attorneys can hold them liable for negligence.

The Illinois Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/) requires amusement park owners and operators to maintain reasonably safe property conditions for guests. This includes addressing hazards like wet surfaces, broken railings, poor lighting, or inadequate security at theme parks, water parks, and carnivals. If a visitor suffers an injury due to unsafe property conditions, our Chicago premises liability attorneys can hold negligent owners legally responsible.

Illinois’ Product Liability Law (735 ILCS 5/2-21) allows injured riders to bring claims against ride manufacturers, designers, and maintenance contractors, in addition to owners. Cases often involve mechanical ride failures, electrical failures, or defective safety restraints. A skilled Chicago product liability lawyer can use this law to expand liability beyond operators, ensuring victims pursue maximum recovery for catastrophic injuries caused by defective amusement rides.

Chicago’s Municipal Code (§4-156) requires local amusement operators to obtain licenses, follow city safety regulations, and comply with operating requirements for carnivals, haunted houses, climbing walls, and inflatable attractions. Operators who violate these rules can be held liable for resulting injuries. This local law is especially important for school fairs, traveling carnivals, and community events across Cook County. If an operator fails to follow these requirements, a Chicago amusement park accident lawyer can use these violations to strengthen a personal injury claim.

How Long Do Amusement Park Accident Victims Have to Take Legal Action in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, victims of amusement park accidents generally have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. There are exceptions for amusement park liability cases involving minors, so it’s best to consult a Chicago child injury attorney as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected.

If an amusement park injury results in death, Illinois provides surviving family members two years from the date of death to bring a lawsuit with the help of Chicago wrongful death attorneys.

Who Is Legally Liable for Amusement Park Accidents in Chicago?

Determining liability after an amusement park accident in Chicago often requires examining multiple parties. Park owners and operators have a duty to maintain safe premises, enforce safety instructions, and ensure rides are inspected regularly. 

Ride manufacturers may be responsible if a design flaw or defective part contributed to the accident. Maintenance contractors hired to service roller coasters, water slides, or amusement park rides can also be held accountable if improper ride maintenance caused the failure. 

Liability may extend to event organizers of traveling fairs or school carnivals when rides are not properly supervised. Even security providers may face claims if inadequate security allowed assaults or dangerous conduct that led to injuries. 

A skilled Chicago amusement park accident lawyer investigates all possible liable parties to ensure victims pursue full compensation.

Common Defenses Countered by Our Personal Injury Lawyers

In amusement park accident cases, defendants often raise predictable defenses to avoid paying compensation. One common argument is the assumption of risk, claiming that by riding roller coasters, water slides, or carnival rides, the victim accepted the dangers. Our personal injury lawyers counter this by showing that guests assume only reasonable risks, not hidden hazards caused by amusement park negligence or defective rides.

Another defense is comparative negligence, where park owners argue that the victim’s own actions—such as ignoring safety instructions—caused the accident. We counter this by presenting medical records, witness testimony, and surveillance footage proving the park failed to provide a safe environment.

Finally, disputes often arise between manufacturers and operators, each blaming the other. Our personal injury lawyers conduct independent investigations, consult engineers, and identify all liable parties. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we fight to ensure accident victims are not left unprotected by these tactics.

How to Strengthen Your Amusement Park Accident Case in Chicago

If you or a loved one has been injured at Six Flags Great America, Navy Pier’s Winter Wonderfest, or another local venue, taking the proper steps immediately can strengthen your case. 

First, seek immediate medical attention and keep detailed records of your treatment, as this links your injuries directly to the incident. Report the accident to park management and ask for a written copy of their report. Preserve physical evidence like wristbands, tickets, and receipts that prove you were at the park. 

Collect witness statements and contact information before people leave the scene. Photos and videos of the ride, attraction, or unsafe condition can also be powerful evidence. These actions allow a Chicago amusement park accident lawyer to build the most substantial possible claim on your behalf.

How an Experienced Attorney From Our Chicago Law Firm Can Help

Amusement park accident claims are rarely straightforward. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our Chicago amusement park accident lawyers bring years of experience handling cases involving roller coasters, water rides, inflatable attractions, and other entertainment venues across Cook County. 

Our legal team begins by conducting a thorough investigation, including reviewing ride maintenance logs, inspection records, and safety compliance reports. We work with nationally recognized engineering and safety experts who can identify mechanical failures, improper ride maintenance, or operator negligence. 

From there, we handle every step of the process—filing your claim, dealing directly with the insurance company and defense lawyers, and ensuring your rights are protected. 

If the defendants refuse to offer a fair settlement, our trial-ready attorneys will present a compelling case in front of a Cook County jury. With our law firm on your side, you gain a trusted advocate who knows how to secure justice for amusement park accident victims.

FAQs

Who inspects amusement parks in Illinois?

In Illinois, amusement parks, carnivals, and fairs are regulated under the Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Act (430 ILCS 85/). Inspections are performed by the Illinois Department of Labor, which enforces safety compliance. National safety standards are set by organizations like the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) and the ASTM F-24 Committee, which develops technical guidelines for amusement rides. These standards cover ride design, manufacturing, and daily operation. A Chicago amusement park accident lawyer can investigate whether a park operator complied with both Illinois law and industry guidelines when an accident occurs.

How do I prove amusement park negligence?

To prove amusement park negligence in Illinois, you must show four legal elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Park owners and operators owe visitors a duty of reasonable care to provide a safe environment, properly maintain rides, and follow safety regulations. You must prove a breach of that duty, such as failing to inspect amusement park rides, ignoring weight restrictions, or hiring untrained operators. Then, you must establish causation—that the park’s negligence directly caused your injury. Finally, you must demonstrate measurable damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain, and emotional suffering. Our personal injury attorneys gather evidence to prove each element.

Can I sue if I signed a legal waiver?

Many amusement parks, water parks, and carnivals in Illinois require riders to sign liability waivers. However, these waivers do not give operators a free pass. Illinois courts recognize exceptions where a waiver cannot protect against gross negligence, reckless conduct, or defective ride design. Waivers also don’t apply to minors, since children cannot legally waive their rights. If you or your child signed a waiver but suffered injuries due to an operator’s misconduct or a ride malfunction, you may still pursue a claim. Our Chicago amusement park accident lawyers regularly challenge these waivers in court.

What if I didn’t follow all safety instructions?

Illinois’ Comparative Negligence Law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116) allows injured victims to seek compensation as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your award may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. An experienced personal injury attorney can fight to limit claims of negligence and maximize your financial recovery.

How much does a Chicago amusement park accident attorney cost?

Our Chicago amusement park accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs to hire us. We only get paid if we secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Illinois?

A wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of surviving family members. Beneficiaries can include a spouse, children, and sometimes parents or other dependents.

Book a Free Case Evaluation With a Chicago Amusement Park Accident Lawyer Near You

Suffering an injury at an amusement park, carnival, or water park can change your life in an instant. Whether it happened at Six Flags Great America, Navy Pier, or a local Cook County fair, you shouldn’t have to face the legal process alone. 

The experienced legal team at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers has earned a reputation as trusted Chicago amusement park accident lawyers, fighting for victims and families to hold park owners, ride operators, and other negligent parties accountable.

We provide every client with a free consultation—a no-obligation meeting where we review the facts of your case, explain your rights, and discuss which Illinois law applies. Don’t let an insurance company minimize your losses. 

Contact us today to discuss your case with an experienced attorney who will fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation.

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All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.