Going to a theme park for the day is something everyone does, with some even choosing to base their holidays around it, going to theme park hotels and resorts. Its always great fun: frightening in a safe way, but what happens when things go wrong?

Although the owners of rides usually carry out stringent checks on their machines, there are still many reports of accidents in the news.

This year there were reports of three teenagers suffering serious injuries on a day out at the carnival in Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia. The teenagers were on the Ferris wheel when the pod they were in loosened itself from the rest of the structure, falling to the ground.

Despite enduring a 20ft fall, surprisingly, the teenagers only suffered back injuries, abrasions and cuts and after being treated in hospital were allowed home within a matter of hours. Since the incident the ride has been closed, and with an investigation now under way it is likely the owners will face charges.

It\’s not just large rides that accidents occur on either. In December last year, at a Cambridge go karting area, an 18 year old girl was strangled to death whilst driving one of the go karts. Her scarf got caught in the engine, which pulled it around her neck, meaning she was strangled. She died the next day due to the injuries suffered.

A spokesman from the karting company said the incident had occurred when a member of staff allowed six friends to use the track outside of official opening hours, and that during trading hours strict safety precautions were upheld.

It\’s not just the visitors that have been hurt either, and there have been several reports over the years of \’cast members\’ at Disney being hurt. One such incident occurred recently, when a cast member on the Tommorowland Ride at the Magic Kingdom was struck by a guest. The employees injuries have not yet been disclosed, but they were taken to hospital.

Accidents do occur, but by following some simple pieces of advice you can minimise the risk to you and your family. So only go on professional rides, observe all rules relating to the rides and if you see anything you think may be a hazard inform staff immediately.

Oliver & Co are specialist no-win no-fee solicitors and can help if you have a genuine head injury claim they can help you make a claim for the compensation you deserve.