Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is currently facing a lawsuit regarding an incident that took place on one of their water slides. The lawsuit alleges that a woman suffered serious injuries, including a painful "wedgie," while riding the Humunga Kowabunga water slide at the Typhoon Lagoon water park in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
The incident occurred on October 14, 2019, during a family visit to Walt Disney World to celebrate the plaintiff's 30th birthday. The Humunga Kowabunga water slide is advertised by Disney as a thrilling experience, featuring a near-vertical, five-story drop in total darkness. Riders plunge 214 feet down into a pool of water at the end of the slide.
According to court documents filed in the Circuit Court for Orange County, Florida, the lawsuit claims that Disney was aware, or should have been aware, of the potential risk of "wedgies," especially for women. The force of the water at the bottom of the slide could push loose garments into a person's anatomy, causing a painful wedgie. The lawsuit argues that due to a woman's anatomy, the risk and severity of a wedgie are higher compared to men.
The plaintiffs are seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for negligence. They allege that Disney failed to provide protective clothing, such as shorts, for the slide, and did not adequately warn riders, particularly women, about the risks involved. The suit also claims there were design and safety failures.
According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff assumed the proper position with her ankles crossed, as instructed, but became airborne towards the end of the slide, causing her legs to become uncrossed and exposing her to injury. As a result, her swimsuit was forced between her legs with significant force, leading to severe internal pain and the loss of blood. She was immediately taken to a local hospital and later transferred to another hospital to be treated for gynecologic injuries. The court documents state that she suffered severe and permanent bodily injuries, as well as mental anguish and lost earnings.
In addition to the negligence claim, the lawsuit includes a count for "loss of consortium" on behalf of the plaintiff's husband, who has allegedly suffered the loss of his wife's care, comfort, support, and services due to Disney's negligence. The plaintiffs are demanding a jury trial and seeking compensatory damages and taxable costs.