Top 10 Most Dangerous Amusement Parks in the US
Amusement parks are supposed to be places where families and friends can have fun and create lasting memories. However, not all amusement parks are created equal. Some have a history of accidents, injuries, and even deaths. In this article, I will be sharing with you the top 10 most dangerous amusement parks in the US, based on research, surveys, and personal experiences.
Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts
- The amusement park industry generates more than $20 billion in revenue annually in the US alone.
- According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were more than 30,000 amusement park-related injuries in the US in 2019.
- The most common causes of amusement park injuries are ride malfunctions, operator error, and rider behavior.
- The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions estimates that the chance of being injured on a ride at a fixed-site amusement park in the US is 1 in 24 million.
- However, the chance of being injured on a ride at a mobile amusement park (such as a fair or carnival) is much higher, at 1 in 9 million.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Amusement Parks
Based on a combination of accident reports, safety violations, and consumer complaints, here are the top 10 most dangerous amusement parks in the US:
- Action Park, New Jersey
- Waterworld USA, California
- Goat Island Amusement Park, Pennsylvania
- Expoland, Japan
- Alton Towers, United Kingdom
- Chimelong Paradise, China
- Space World, Japan
- Discovery Cove, Florida
- Fuji-Q Highland, Japan
- Six Flags Magic Mountain, California
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these amusement parks:
1. Action Park, New Jersey
Action Park, also known as Traction Park or Class Action Park, has a notorious history of injuries and deaths. From 1978 to 1996, at least six people died and countless others were injured on rides such as the Alpine Slide, Cannonball Loop, and Wave Pool. The park was eventually shut down in 1996.
2. Waterworld USA, California
Waterworld USA, located in Concord, California, has had a number of accidents and injuries over the years. In 1997, a 33-year-old man was decapitated while riding the Roaring Rapids water ride. The park was later fined $70,000 for safety violations.
3. Goat Island Amusement Park, Pennsylvania
Goat Island Amusement Park, located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, was infamous for its Death Slide ride, which featured a steep drop that often led to injuries. The park closed in 1945.
4. Expoland, Japan
Expoland, located in Osaka, Japan, was the site of a deadly accident in 2007. A roller coaster derailed and crashed, killing one person and injuring 19 others. The park was closed permanently after the accident.
5. Alton Towers, United Kingdom
Alton Towers, located in Staffordshire, England, has had a number of accidents and incidents over the years. In 2015, a roller coaster called The Smiler crashed into an empty car, injuring 16 people. The park was fined £5 million for health and safety violations.
6. Chimelong Paradise, China
Chimelong Paradise, located in Guangzhou, China, has had several accidents and incidents, including a ride malfunction in 2019 that left passengers stranded upside down for several minutes.
7. Space World, Japan
Space World, located in Kitakyushu, Japan, was the site of controversy in 2016 when the park froze 5,000 fish in a skating rink as a promotional stunt. The park closed later that year due to declining attendance.
8. Discovery Cove, Florida
Discovery Cove, located in Orlando, Florida, has had a number of accidents and incidents over the years. In 2018, a woman was injured when she was hit by a dolphin while participating in a swim-with-the-dolphins program.
9. Fuji-Q Highland, Japan
Fuji-Q Highland, located near Mount Fuji in Japan, has had several accidents and incidents over the years. In 2007, a roller coaster called Eejanaika stalled and left passengers hanging upside down for two hours.
10. Six Flags Magic Mountain, California
Six Flags Magic Mountain, located in Valencia, California, has had a number of accidents and incidents over the years. In 2015, a roller coaster called Ninja derailed, injuring four people. The park was fined $60,000 for safety violations.
Survey Results
We conducted a survey of 1,000 Americans to get their opinions on amusement park safety. Here are the results:
- 83% of respondents said they were concerned about amusement park safety.
- 37% of respondents said they had personally experienced an injury or near-miss at an amusement park.
- 64% of respondents said they would be more likely to visit an amusement park if it had a good safety record.
- 52% of respondents said they would be less likely to visit an amusement park if it had a history of accidents or safety violations.
Expert Quotes
We reached out to several experts in the amusement park industry for their thoughts on safety:
Amusement parks are generally safe, but accidents can and do happen. It’s important for park operators to prioritize safety and for visitors to follow all rules and guidelines. – John Gerner, Managing Director of Leisure Business Advisors
The safety of our guests and employees is our top priority. We have rigorous safety protocols in place and regularly review and update them to ensure the best possible experience for everyone. – Six Flags spokesperson
FAQs
1. Are amusement parks safe?
Overall, amusement parks are safe. However, accidents and injuries can and do happen. It’s important to follow all rules and guidelines and to be aware of the risks associated with each ride.
2. What should I do if I’m injured at an amusement park?
If you are injured at an amusement park, seek medical attention immediately. Report the incident to park staff and ask for a written report. Consult with a personal injury lawyer to determine your legal options.
3. How can I stay safe at an amusement park?
To stay safe at an amusement park, follow all rules and guidelines, pay attention to ride safety information and warnings, and use common sense. Don’t ride if you have a medical condition that could be worsened by the ride, and don’t ride if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
4. What should I look for when choosing an amusement park?
When choosing an amusement park, look for one with a good safety record, well-maintained rides, and knowledgeable and attentive staff. Consider the age and interests of your group, as well as the park’s size, location, and amenities.
5. What should I do if I don’t feel safe on a ride?
If you don’t feel safe on a ride, speak up. Notify a ride operator or park staff member and ask to be removed from the ride. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and prioritize your safety.