A North Carolina woman has filed a lawsuit against Universal’s Epic Universe, alleging that she suffered serious injuries, including a concussion and neck trauma, after riding the “Stardust Racers” roller coaster. The incident took place in May, and the lawsuit claims that the ride’s warning signs were inadequate to inform riders about the potential risks, particularly regarding head impacts against the headrest during the ride.
Debbie Reinelt asserts that while on the coaster, her head was subjected to violent shaking, resulting in not only the concussion but also post-traumatic headaches and persistent neck pain. Her legal representation highlighted that this case follows another lawsuit filed earlier this summer, which involved a rider named Sandi Streets, who also experienced similar head and brain injuries while riding the same attraction.
Universal has stated that the “Stardust Racers” ride is not designed for individuals with pre-existing back or neck conditions. The company also emphasizes the importance of maintaining an upright posture and supporting the torso, neck, and head during sudden movements, which are inherent to the ride experience.
This lawsuit is particularly significant given the history of safety concerns surrounding the coaster. It follows the tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, a wheelchair-bound individual who passed away after riding the attraction. Investigations confirmed that the ride was operating as intended at the time of the incident. In response to these events, Universal has introduced updated safety policies, including a requirement for wheelchair users to board the ride independently.
As Universal faces increasing scrutiny regarding safety measures at its attractions, it has yet to release a public statement regarding the latest lawsuit brought by Reinelt. The outcomes of these cases could lead to further evaluation of ride safety protocols and enhance awareness among riders about the potential risks associated with specific attractions.