Disneyland Worker Injured While Fixing Ride

Posted on October 10, 2012

English: Space Mountain at Disneyland (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many families and friends travel to amusement parks to getaway and enjoy themselves. One very popular theme park is Disneyland. The self-proclaimed “Happiest Place on Earth” is known to have multiple rides, parades, and various attractions that has several guests flying from all over the country to come visit. But no matter how happy and fun an amusement park is, personal injury accidents can still take place.

For instance, a Disneyland worker was injured on Tuesday, October 2 after being struck by one of the vehicles on the Space Mountain ride. He was taken to the hospital and still remains in the critical-care unit.

Disneyland fanatics who have been on Space Mountain know the fast speed of the ride cars, the darkness of the ride, and the overall big structure of the attraction. The ride draws many adventure-seekers as they move and speed through the stars displayed throughout the ride. Because of the high amount of visitors who go on Space Mountain, continuous and regular maintenance must be performed. The 68-year old Disneyland employee was doing just that when he was injured.

During after hours of when the park was closed, one machinist was fixing and returning a ride car that had been broken earlier in the day. While he was putting back the vehicle, another vehicle zoomed by and hit him. The impact was so hard that it resulted in back, head, and chest injuries. Space Mountain vehicles reach a speed of about 30 mph.

Anaheim Fire Department arrived on the scene at around 9:43 p.m. and brought the victim to a nearby hospital. He is still being treated.

A spokesperson for Disneyland has stated that the ride did not malfunction and was back to normal operation the very next day. They sent their prayers and thoughts out to the employee and his family. They are also hoping for a speedy recovery.

An investigation on the incident has been started, where they only have up to six months to complete their investigative work.

While theme parks are a venue of fun and enjoyment, visitors should still be aware that accidents can still occur. Being injured in an amusement park is not unheard of and should be taken seriously. If you have received personal injury at a theme park, contact a personal injury lawyer today to fight for your rights.