Stardust Racers Sparks Lawsuit from Five Injured Plaintiffs

Lawsuits Emerge Following Tragic Incidents on Stardust Racers at Epic Universe

In recent weeks, Universal Orlando Resort has come under scrutiny following a series of serious allegations pertaining to their new roller coaster, Stardust Racers. Five separate lawsuits have been filed against the resort, with plaintiffs claiming extensive injuries — including brain bleeding, spinal cord damage, and even paralysis. These legal actions come hot on the heels of a tragic incident that led to the death of 32-year-old Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who reportedly suffered fatal injuries while enjoying the ride. The complex legal and ethical challenges brought forth by these cases raise essential questions about safety protocols and corporate responsibilities in amusement parks.

Details of the Allegations

The lawsuits, filed in Orange County, detail harrowing experiences of several riders who claim they suffered severe injuries due to the ride’s design. The roller coaster has been described as an intense experience, with significant velocities reaching up to 62 mph and heights of 133 feet. Witnesses reported seeing Zavala’s head slam repeatedly against the seat in front of him during the ride. It is notable that the lawsuits have been filed by multiple riders, some of whom experienced paralysis and require ongoing medical care. They are seeking damages exceeding $50,000 to cover these costs.

Legal Landscape and Corporate Response

Universal Orlando Resort has refrained from commenting on the ongoing litigation, maintaining a standard practice of not discussing pending lawsuits. Additionally, the lawsuits identify Mack Rides, the German company responsible for designing and manufacturing Stardust Racers, as a co-defendant. The claims allege that the ride was inadequately designed, lacking the necessary safety features such as head restraints to minimize the risk of injury. This raises crucial questions about accountability and the obligation of amusement parks to prioritize rider safety over entertainment.

The Tragic Incident of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala

The lawsuit’s timing is significant, occurring just days after Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s family reached a confidential settlement with Universal Orlando Resort regarding his death. According to a report from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Zavala, who had a lifelong spinal condition and utilized a wheelchair, suffered severe injuries and lost consciousness during the ride. He was pronounced dead at Orlando Regional Medical Center. While the report classified his death as accidental, the circumstances have prompted further exploration into the adequacy of safety measures on the ride.

Attorneys Seek to Highlight Systemic Issues

Attorney Nick Spetsas, who represents the injured riders, has been vocal about the aggressive pursuit of accountability from both Universal and Mack Rides. He argues that the roller coaster poses inherent dangers that were not adequately communicated to ride participants. “If you’re going to let people on the ride, then you have to make it safe to ride,” he stated, emphasizing that amusement parks are responsible for ensuring that exciting experiences do not compromise visitor safety. The injured parties are described as suffering immediate pain post-ride and being rushed to emergency medical facilities, strengthening the case for negligence.

Moving Forward: Seeking Justice and Safety Improvements

While the lawsuits have yet to progress to the discovery phase, Spetsas insists that they are far from frivolous claims. His firm has been attempting to amicably resolve these cases with Universal but has found their efforts unsuccessful, leading to litigation. As the cases unfold, they will likely scrutinize not just the specific incidents but also the broader safety protocols enforced by major amusement parks. Stakeholders—riders, families, and legal representatives—are watching closely as these cases may pave the way for changes in the industry’s approach to ride safety and risk management.

Conclusion

The ongoing lawsuits against Universal Orlando Resort signal a critical moment for amusement parks, raising essential discussions about guest safety, corporate accountability, and the diligent design of attractions. As the legal proceedings continue, they illuminate the complexities emerging from incidents like the tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, compelling both the public and businesses alike to prioritize safety without sacrificing thrill. Ensuring that amusement parks provide exhilarating experiences underpinned by rigorous safety measures will be pivotal in retaining public trust and safeguarding riders in the future.