Many families from Tennessee and all over the United States eagerly look forward to a visit to the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. With over three million annual visitors, the amusement park is one of East Tennessee’s premier attractions. Dollywood hosts numerous special events, but its amusement park rides remain its primary draw.

Unfortunately, Dollywood ride accidents can very quickly bring an enjoyable family vacation to a halt. When equipment malfunctions, it can create dangerous situations that may result in severe injuries.

If you got hurt in a ride-related accident at Dollywood, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and other financial and personal losses.

Contact The Terry Law Firm today to discuss your case with an experienced Dollywood ride malfunction accident lawyer.

Types of Potential Ride Malfunctions at Dollywood

Amusement park rides can experience serious malfunctions that endanger riders, especially when park management and employees neglect regular inspections and maintenance.

Dollywood features a wide range of rides – including high-speed roller coasters, water attractions, and mechanical swings – all of which involve moving parts and systems that must function properly at all times. When any part of these systems fails, it can result in injuries if riders are thrown, trapped, or struck by equipment.

Some examples of potential types of Dollywood ride malfunctions include:

  • Mechanical failures, such as broken chains, gears, or hydraulic systems, that cause sudden stops or drops
  • Electrical malfunctions, including short circuits or sensor failures that disrupt ride timing or control systems
  • Safety restraint defects, such as seatbelts or harnesses that fail to latch properly
  • Structural problems, including cracks or weakened supports, caused by metal fatigue or poor maintenance
  • Operator errors, where attendants fail to secure riders properly or override safety warnings
  • Software or computer errors that cause unexpected movements or improper synchronization between ride components
  • Inadequate maintenance, where critical parts are not inspected or replaced according to manufacturer or state safety standards
  • Emergency braking system failures that prevent rides from stopping safely during malfunctions

Legal Liability for Amusement Park Accidents in Tennessee

Accidents at Dollywood typically fall under the legal umbrella of premises liability. Under Tennessee premises liability laws, property owners are responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions for visitors. Dollywood, like any property that invites guests for business purposes, has a legal duty to regularly inspect the park, repair hazards, and warn visitors about dangers. When park officials breach that duty and a guest gets hurt, the theme park may be held financially responsible.

Depending on the facts of the case, multiple parties could share responsibility for a ride malfunction or related injury. Examples of potentially liable parties include:

  • The amusement park operator, for failing to inspect or maintain rides properly
  • Ride manufacturers, if the malfunction resulted from a design or production defect
  • Maintenance contractors, if they performed negligent repairs or inspections
  • Ride operators or attendants, if park employees failed to follow safety procedures or secure riders correctly
  • Third-party vendors or event organizers, if they contributed to unsafe conditions on-site

Types of Serious Injuries and Compensation in Dollywood Accident Cases

Ride malfunctions and other theme park accidents can lead to a wide range of physical and emotional injuries, depending on the type of ride, the speed or height involved, and the nature of the malfunction. Some examples of potential amusement park injuries from Dollywood ride accidents include:

  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Lacerations, bruises, and soft tissue damage
  • Internal organ injuries
  • Burns or electrical injuries
  • Amputations or crush injuries
  • Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Victims of ride accidents at Tennessee amusement parks like Dollywood may be eligible to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life. The amount of compensation depends on the nature and severity of the injuries and their long-term impacts.

Steps to Take After a Dollywood Ride Malfunction Accident

The moments after a Dollywood ride malfunction can be chaotic and confusing. Getting medical treatment should be your priority. Seek immediate attention from emergency responders, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can become serious if untreated. Prompt care also helps create an official medical record that supports your claim.

In the days and weeks following the accident, consider taking the following steps:

  • Report the incident to Dollywood management and request a written copy of the report.
  • Collect contact information from witnesses who saw what happened.
  • Take photographs or videos of the ride, your injuries, and any contributing conditions.
  • Keep all medical records, bills, receipts, and related communication.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with park representatives or insurers before speaking with an attorney.
  • Contact an experienced Dollywood ride malfunction accident lawyer at The Terry Law Firm.

How The Terry Law Firm Can Help with Your Dollywood Injury Claim

Working with an experienced personal injury attorney provides the strongest path to a positive outcome after a Dollywood accident. When you trust The Terry Law Firm with your case, the team will immediately begin investigating the incident and preparing your claim.

They manage the insurance and legal processes so you can focus on healing. While you recover, the firm negotiates with insurers and prepares for trial if needed.

The Terry Law Firm has over five decades of combined experience serving injured people in East Tennessee and has recovered tens of millions for clients. If you were hurt on an amusement park ride, strong advocacy can help you pursue justice and compensation.

Contact us 24/7 for a free consultation with a Dollywood ride malfunction accident lawyer.