SeaWorld Claims Guest Was Hit in the Face by ‘Snowy Egret’ on Roller Coaster. And Bird Itself Might Be the Key

SeaWorld Orlando’s Latest Legal Controversy: Guest Injured by Migratory Bird, Not Duck Claims Lawsuit

SeaWorld Orlando has once again found itself in the midst of a legal dispute after a guest claimed she suffered permanent injuries due to a peculiar incident involving a bird. The guest, identified as Hillary Martin, filed a lawsuit against the popular theme park, alleging that she was struck in the face by a duck while riding a roller coaster. However, SeaWorld’s legal team has countered this claim, stating that it was not a duck but a Snowy Egret, a migratory bird commonly found along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.

The lawsuit filed by Martin in Orange County, Florida, details the incident that occurred on March 24 during her visit to the park. She asserts that a duck unexpectedly flew into the path of the roller coaster, resulting in a collision with her face. Martin’s complaint points to SeaWorld’s placement of the high-speed attraction near a body of water as a factor that created a “zone of danger for bird strikes.”

In response, SeaWorld’s attorneys have moved to dismiss the lawsuit, emphasising that the bird involved was not a duck as claimed by Martin, but a Snowy Egret. They argue that Florida law does not hold a premises owner liable for wild animal actions unless specific conditions are met, such as bringing the animal into possession or introducing it to the location.

Moreover, SeaWorld’s legal team contends that Martin declined immediate medical assistance after the incident, opting to continue her park visit. It was only the following day that she sought medical treatment, raising questions about the severity of her alleged injuries. The attorneys further challenge Martin’s assertion that the park’s proximity to water created an unsafe environment, deeming it speculative and legally unfounded.

The dispute is set to be deliberated in an initial conference scheduled for December 8, where both parties will present their arguments before a judge. Martin’s lawyer has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter, adding another layer of intrigue to the ongoing legal battle between the guest and SeaWorld Orlando.

This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of theme park experiences and the potential legal complexities that can arise from such events. The contrasting accounts of the incident highlight the importance of thorough investigations and legal scrutiny in determining accountability and seeking resolution in such cases.

As the case unfolds, it raises broader questions about visitor safety measures and wildlife interactions at amusement parks, prompting discussions on how to mitigate risks and ensure a secure environment for guests and wildlife alike. SeaWorld’s handling of this situation and the legal proceedings that follow will undoubtedly be closely monitored for their implications on future park operations and guest welfare.

In the world of theme park controversies, this peculiar case at SeaWorld Orlando serves as a reminder of the unexpected twists and turns that can unfold in the pursuit of leisure and entertainment. Stay tuned as this legal battle continues to unravel, shedding light on the complexities of wildlife encounters in the realm of amusement park experiences.