Elderly woman awarded $7.25 million after ride accident at Universal Studios

In 2022, a tragic incident occurred at Universal Studios Hollywood when 74-year-old Pamela Morrison from Arizona suffered a severe injury while exiting the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. The incident unfolded as Morrison was instructed to step off the ride; however, her harness had failed to secure properly. As she attempted to exit, her foot landed on a moving walkway while her other foot went onto stationary ground, resulting in her losing balance and falling, which caused her to suffer a spinal compression fracture. The aftermath of the fall was devastating for Morrison, who was left unable to perform many daily tasks independently due to her injuries. Her inability to use the bathroom without assistance was one of the significant impacts on her mobility and overall quality of life. Following the incident, she was rushed to the hospital where she received treatment for her injuries. Subsequent medical care resulted in substantial medical expenses due to the long-lasting effects of her fall, further complicating her situation. In light of the incident, Morrison sought justice, leading to a lawsuit against Universal Studios Hollywood. Her attorney, Taylor Kruse, argued that the fall was preventable and emphasized the park's negligence in allowing the moving walkway to continue during her exit. Kruse highlighted that stopping the walkway would only have required a few seconds, and by failing to do so, the park prioritized their operational efficiency over guest safety, intending to meet their high rider capacity of 1,800 riders per hour. During the trial, Universal Studios' legal representatives contended that Morrison's focus on her grandson during the exit sequence contributed to the accident. However, after deliberations, the jury ultimately ruled in favor of Morrison, awarding her $7.25 million in damages for her suffering and injuries sustained. The verdict not only reflects the circumstances of her case but also raises significant questions about safety standards in theme parks across the United States, as the incident has sparked discussions about the safety measures implemented for guests on rides and the potential risks associated with such attractions.