Jackson, Wyoming — A long time ago, Snow King Mountain had scenic chairlift rides that seem too dangerous to comprehend in today’s modern world. The rides up lacked restraint bars, providing minimal protection for riders in the event of a heavy wind gust. Photos of the experience tend to make the rounds on social media, with people saying how hard-core the world used to be.
So it may be a little ironic that the attraction with a seatbelt on it is the one that’s getting Snow King into legal trouble.
The Cowboy State Daily reports that a Wyoming man is suing Snow King Mountain Resort (not Snow King Resort, which is the hotel next door) and a roller coaster part manufacturer over a seatbelt failure. The individual alleges that the ski resort and manufacturer acted with negligence and engaged in “willful and wanton misconduct.” He is looking for a jury trial to determine the just compensation for the impacts the situation has had on his life.
Back in 2018, a series of seatbelt failures on the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King resulted in the seatbelts being replaced. The seatbelt manufacturer, Wiegand Sports, issued a recall following the incidents, and the ride at Snow King remained closed until the new protective equipment was installed. In addition, Snow King introduced a policy of double-checking that the seatbelts of riders were secure.
In 2021, Juan Camacho took a ride on the coaster. While Juan put his seatbelt on, the employees allegedly failed to perform their tests during the boarding process. While going down the tracks, the seatbelt fell apart, resulting in Juan falling off the ride and suffering injuries, which led to lots of healthcare costs.
The ski resort and the roller coaster supplier have not issued public statements regarding this active litigation.
Image/Video Credits: Snow King Mountain Resort, Snow King Resort Hotel and Condos
