Causes of Roller Coaster Accidents

Different Causes of Roller Coaster Accidents

There are two main types of ride accidents: mechanical failures and human errors caused by either the ride operators or the guests. In many cases, accidents can be avoided or minimized by knowing what can go wrong with an otherwise safe and fun attraction.

Ride Error

Roller coasters are complex machines with sophisticated computer controls, thousands of moving parts, and engineering specifications designed to push the envelope of speed, force, and mechanical stress. As with any machine, roller coasters can have mechanical problems that may cause accidents. Ride failures range from restraints not locking properly to brake systems malfunctioning to computers not properly interpreting sensor signals from trains in motion. This can lead to accidents, but to make the rides as safe as possible, roller coasters are also designed with several levels of failsafes to ensure rider safety. Safety protocols include:

• Multiple restraints for each rider.
• Sensor grids that track where each train is located.
• Brakes designed to remain closed in case of power failure or loss of air pressure.
• Anti-rollback devices to prevent a coaster from reversing down the track.
• Multi-wheel designs to keep the train from coming off the track.
• Multiple operational controls that must be simultaneously activated for the coaster to run.
• Regular maintenance inspections and tests to ensure the ride is operating properly.

Guests nervous about riding a particular roller coaster because of safety concerns can still enjoy the ride if they investigate it beforehand. Examining the physical condition of the ride can help overcome anxiety:

• Are the seat belts and other restraints worn or frayed?
• Is the ride exceptionally rusty or otherwise poorly maintained?
• Does the park have a history of mechanical ride failures?

By understanding the mechanical aspects of roller coaster safety, guests can attempt to mitigate the physical causes of roller coaster accidents that can turn a fun vacation into an unsafe experience.

Operator Error

The majority of roller coaster accidents are caused by human errors. Some of these errors are caused by the ride’s operators, such as failing to ensure all restraints are closed and locked, negligently operating the ride, or allowing activities that are inappropriate in the ride area. At the same time, however, amusement parks offer comprehensive training programs for their employees in an effort to avoid operator errors. Common ways that parks seek to prevent operator errors include:

• Thorough training manuals that cover the basics of ride mechanics, extensive safety procedures, and a wide variety of different operational situations such as how to react to mechanical failures, hazardous weather, and other potential accident situations.
• Initial training sessions and operator tests that must be passed before employees can operate rides.
• Regular inspections and evaluations of ride crews to ensure they are following proper procedures.
• Carefully outlined safety procedures that all operators are expected to adhere to, with harsh disciplinary measures for safety failures.

Very large amusement parks may have thousands of employees, and a single roller coaster may have anywhere from just two or three operators to a coordinated crew of more than a dozen operators keeping the ride moving smoothly. Any one of these employees can make errors that could lead to roller coaster accidents, but conscientious riders can help avoid dangerous situations by:

• Being a responsible rider and not relying on operators to notice every potentially unsafe situation.
• Double checking safety restraints and asking operators for assistance if there are problems.
• Reporting operators who behave in unsafe ways to park authorities.

Rider Error

Accidents that are a result of rider error typically occur when guests are not behaving safely and unintentionally create dangerous conditions. Many times this is not because the rider means to be unsafe, but because they may not be aware of what can be dangerous behavior on a roller coaster. Poor actions can lead to cuts and bruises, broken bones, property damage, or even fatalities in extreme situations. At the same time, safe riders can prevent many problems, allowing everyone to have a fun time without any danger. Safe behavior includes:

• Following ride recommendations, such as not riding with heart, back, or neck problems.
• Using proper posture and not trying to turn around in the seat, stand up, or reach outside the car.
• Securing all loose articles that could become dangerous projectiles on a fast ride.
• Fastening restraints snuggly and in the proper position.
• Being aware of ride surroundings, such as whether or not the train may move unexpectedly.
• Staying out of restricted and employees only areas.

A safe rider can avoid many causes of roller coaster accidents and can enjoy an exciting ride without problems.

Dealing With An Accident

Most accidents are minor.

Despite the best precautions, accidents can still occur. When they do happen, both operators and riders can react safely to prevent additional dangers.

Operators

Ride operators are trained to react to accidents safely while keeping riders from further dangers. Responses may include evacuating the ride if it can be done without risk, summoning emergency response teams, and stopping further ride operation to keep more guests from getting involved. All of these actions are designed to solve dangerous situations without further risk or damage.

Riders

When an accident happens, riders should remain calm and listen to the instructions of ride operators. Making demands or monopolizing an operator’s attention can slow recovery efforts, and riders need to be patient as operators work to resume normal procedures. Riders may be asked to give detailed statements, and grievances can be filed with the park if necessary.

Roller coaster accidents are an unpleasant reality, but following the proper roller coaster safety tips and understanding what can cause accidents can help riders avoid problems and minimize hazards on their amusement park vacation.