Universal’s Terrifying New Rollercoaster Injures Riders, Horrifies Lawyer After Fatal Accident

New Evidence of Injuries on Universal Orlando’s Rollercoaster

Multiple individuals have reportedly suffered injuries on Universal Orlando’s new 62mph rollercoaster, Stardust Racers, before the tragic death of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala earlier this month. According to a recent announcement by renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump, his office and Zavala’s family have received numerous messages from people who rode the attraction since Universal’s Epic Universe opened in May. These individuals claim they also experienced injuries following their rides.

One woman reached out to Zavala’s family through an online fundraiser, sharing her own story of spine and neck injuries after the ride was launched. Crump highlighted this at a news conference in Orlando, emphasizing that there were warning signs about the design of the coaster. He also pointed out that not all of those affected had preexisting conditions, suggesting that the park may have overlooked potential issues with the ride.

Another individual, Sandi Streets, 49, filed a lawsuit against Universal last week, alleging she sustained injuries while riding the coaster. The ride, which reaches speeds of up to 62mph and heights of 133ft, was said to have caused her severe neck pain and headaches. Streets claimed that the coaster only provided a hip restraint, leaving her upper body vulnerable during the ride. Her lawsuit detailed the lasting effects of the incident, including permanent bodily injuries, pain, and suffering, as well as financial damages from medical treatment and lost earnings.

The lawsuit was settled on Friday for undisclosed terms and was voluntarily dismissed, according to Florida Politics. However, Crump expressed concern over the park’s response to the injury reports, stating, “they won’t be able to silence everybody.” He questioned what actions theme park officials took after receiving these complaints, suggesting that the company might have attempted to shift blame onto the victims.

Zavala, a 32-year-old man, suffered a similar fate, ultimately leading to his death. Crump revealed that investigators found Zavala hit his head repeatedly on the coaster’s metal bar starting on the first dip of the ride. He remained unconscious for the rest of the journey. Witnesses reported seeing blood and a detached seat covering hanging off the seat where Zavala was strapped in.

Zavala’s mother, Ana, shared her grief through an interpreter, stating, “All we want is answers regarding my son’s death.” She emphasized the importance of finding closure to honor her son and find peace. “It is extremely difficult losing a son, and we do not wish this pain on anyone,” she added.

The family and Crump have denied any connection between Zavala’s death and his pre-existing spinal disability. However, Universal Orlando’s safety guide states that Stardust Racers is “not for guests with back, neck [injuries] or similar physical conditions.” Despite this, Crump argued that if the park believed disabled individuals should not ride, it would not have allowed Zavala to board. “Now you can’t justify this by trying to blame the victim,” he said.

Universal President and COO Karen Irwin stated in a memo to staff that the ride functioned as intended during the incident. She mentioned that internal findings confirmed the ride systems operated correctly, with equipment intact throughout the duration of the ride. Investigators from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services also aligned with the theme park’s findings.

Despite this, the family’s attorneys are working with Universal to inspect the coaster and are waiting for surveillance footage from the ride. Paul Grinke, a managing attorney at Ben Crump Law, vowed to examine every aspect of the coaster, from its design to the materials used on the seats.

The law firm is also calling for greater oversight of large corporations like Universal and Disney. Under Florida law, the state’s two largest theme parks are exempt from safety inspections, unlike smaller venues and fairs. They instead conduct their own inspections and have their own protocols, but must report any injury or death.

Since Epic Universe opened in May, state records show three reports of injuries related to the rides. A 63-year-old man with preexisting conditions experienced dizziness and an “altered state of consciousness,” while a 47-year-old woman had a “visual disturbance” and numbness. Another 32-year-old man experienced chest pain after riding Hiccup’s Wing Gliders.

Universal Orlando has expressed devastation over Zavala’s death and extended its sympathies to the family. The park remains closed as it continues a comprehensive review process in cooperation with the ride manufacturer. “Safety is, and always will be, at the forefront of everything we do,” Irwin stated.