Roller coasters: let the rider beware.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a pediatric patient with a severe abdominal injury following a roller coaster crash, and to review the relevant literature of lap belt injuries and roller coaster safety regulations.


METHODS
Case report.


RESULTS
A seven-year-old girl sitting in the front seat of a two-person roller coaster car was injured when it crashed into the stopped car in front. The patient's injuries, including a partial hepatic amputation, were due to the combined forces of both passengers applied against her lap belt.


CONCLUSIONS
Roller coaster restraint systems do not have the same federal or state oversights as motor vehicles and can result in life-threatening injuries.
Holtzman
D K
DK
Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Kentucky 40292, USA.
Paul
R L
RL
D000059:Accidents; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000293:injuries*; D010988:Play and Playthings / Q000293:injuries*; D012622:Seat Belts / Q000009:adverse effects*