Rides at Metro Atlanta Carnivals Sometimes Dangerous

Last month, the AJC investigated complaints filed against operators of carnivals and amusement parks.  The investigation revealed numerous injury investigations in Georgia since 2005.  These injuries were all the result of negligence on the part of the owners and operators of the rides.  The state investigates each carnival ride only once a year - the first time it is set up in the state.  While this inspection is thorough, the rides may be disassembled and moved several more times without such investigation throughout the year.  Many injuries are caused when rides are assembled incorrectly and safety devices fail.  For example, a 43 year old man was hospitalized after being hurled out of his seat into a fence in July 2008 on a carnival ride in Loganville.  One of the seat's support chains had disconnected causing the injury.  Two 9 year old boys were injured when the motorcycle they were riding came off the track at the Carroll County Fairgrounds in October 2008.  One boy suffered a broken leg.  A 4 year old girl fell almost 70 feet from a gondola on a Ferris Wheel at a Jule & Beck Carnival at Turner Field in Atlanta in 2005.  The girl was too young to be on the ride without an adult and became scared at the top.  When she stood up, she tipped the chair and fell - hitting support braces all the way down.  Amazingly, the girl survived the fall while suffering some broken bones.  A 3 year old was burned after he came in contact with a llve 110-volt electrical wire while climbing the stairs of a fun slide at a carnival in Jasper in 2006.  Bob Johnson, president of the Outdoor Amusement Business Association, commented that a "very high percentage of the time [the injury] is a result of a patron who is not riding properly."  Only one of the above examples can be blamed on a patron refusing to follow the rules.  Even there, the operator of the ride had a duty not to let a young child on the ride without an adult as safety guidelines dictate.  There are several things you can do to decrease the likelihood of being injured.  Most importantly, follow the rules and observe all age, weight, height, and health restrictions.  Also, use the provided safety equipment.  Don't loosen the safety belts.  Do not get up until the ride has come to a complete stop.  And always evaluate children before allowing them ride.  Ensure they understand the safety rules and are capable of following through with safe behavior.