Waterpark Injuries: What You Need to Know

On This Page

1. Common Types of Injuries
2. Safety Tips for Visitors
3. Legal and Liability Considerations

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

June 06, 2024

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

Waterparks offer thrilling adventures and refreshing escapes from the summer heat, but they can also present risks that every visitor should be aware of. As you gear up for a day of fun and excitement, it is important to understand the potential hazards and how to stay safe at a waterpark. 

Common Types of Injuries

Waterparks are designed to provide a safe environment for visitors, but accidents can still happen. Some of the most common types of injuries include:

1. Slips and Falls: Wet surfaces around pools, slides and changing areas can be slippery, leading to falls and injuries like sprains, fractures or head injuries.
2. Drowning: Despite lifeguards and safety measures, drowning remains a significant risk, especially for young children.
3. Slide Injuries: Water slides can cause injuries ranging from minor abrasions to more serious trauma if riders collide or fail to follow safety guidelines.
4. Sunburn and Heat-related Illnesses: Spending hours in the sun without proper protection can lead to sunburn, dehydration and heat exhaustion.
5. Chemical Exposure: Improperly maintained water quality can result in skin rashes, eye irritation or respiratory problems due to chlorine or other chemicals.

Safety Tips for Visitors

To ensure a fun and injury-free day at the waterpark, consider these safety tips:

1. Follow Height and Age Requirements: Adhere to height and age restrictions for rides to prevent injuries that can occur from not meeting the physical requirements.
2. Obey Rules and Guidelines: Pay attention to posted signs, listen to lifeguards’ instructions and follow all safety guidelines for rides and attractions.
3. Use Safety Equipment: Wear appropriate safety gear such as life jackets where required, and make sure they fit properly.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather.
5. Apply Sunscreen: Use sunscreen with a high SPF and reapply frequently to protect against sunburn.
6. Watch Children Closely: Supervise young children at all times, especially around pools and slides.

Legal and Liability Considerations

In the unfortunate event of an injury at a waterpark, understanding your legal rights and the park’s liability is important. Waterparks have a duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment and provide adequate warnings of potential hazards. If negligence or improper maintenance contributed to an injury, victims may have grounds for legal action to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering and other damages.

Recovering Compensation After a Waterpark Accident

If you were injured at a waterpark due to the negligence of others, contact the personal injury attorneys of Berger an Green for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation and there is never a fee unless we win your case.