On July 30, 2025, a catastrophic malfunction of the “360 Degrees” ride at Green Mountain Park in the Hada area near Taif, Saudi Arabia, injured 23 people, with three in critical condition. The pendulum-style thrill ride’s central support pole snapped mid-operation, causing the carousel to plummet several meters to the ground. Viral social media videos captured the moment the ride’s arm cracked, with passengers screaming as it collapsed with a loud thud. Eyewitnesses reported the pole recoiled at high speed, striking some riders, while others were injured from falling or being thrown from their seats.
Hospitals in Taif declared a Code Yellow emergency, with medical teams providing on-site first aid before transferring victims to nearby facilities. Injuries ranged from moderate to severe, with some reports noting children among the injured. The park was immediately closed, and Saudi authorities, including the General Entertainment Authority, launched an investigation to determine the cause, focusing on potential mechanical failure or undetected structural damage. Preliminary accounts cited strange mechanical noises before the collapse, suggesting maintenance or design issues. The Taif Governorate emphasized accountability and adherence to safety protocols in the ongoing probe.
Choosing Legal Representation for This Case:
If you or someone you know is affected by this incident and considering legal action, here’s how to choose the right attorney:
- Specialization in Personal Injury: Seek attorneys with expertise in personal injury law, particularly those familiar with amusement park accidents. These cases often involve premises liability or product liability claims against park operators or ride manufacturers. Firms like Morgan & Morgan or Ankin Law, which handle injury cases in high-risk settings, could be models to consider.
- International Experience: Since the incident occurred in Saudi Arabia, an attorney with experience in cross-border litigation or familiarity with Saudi legal systems is crucial. They should understand how to navigate jurisdictional challenges or collaborate with local counsel, as Saudi Arabia’s legal framework differs significantly from Western systems.
- Track Record with Mass Torts: With 23 victims, this could become a class action or mass tort case. Choose a lawyer experienced in multi-plaintiff lawsuits, as seen in cases like the 2018 Schlitterbahn water slide tragedy in Kansas, where attorneys secured multimillion-dollar settlements. Check case histories on platforms like Justia for similar outcomes.
- Resources for Investigation: The case may hinge on proving negligence in ride maintenance or design flaws. Firms with access to engineering experts or accident reconstruction specialists, like those used in the 2008 Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom case, are essential for building a strong case. Ask about their ability to fund costly investigations, as expert testimony can be pivotal.
- Local Connections: If pursuing claims in Saudi Arabia, an attorney with ties to regional law firms or knowledge of the General Entertainment Authority’s regulations will have an edge. Alternatively, for U.S.-based claims (e.g., against a ride manufacturer), familiarity with federal safety standards like those from the Consumer Product Safety Commission is key.
- Fee Structure: Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, taking 25–40% of any settlement. Clarify all costs, including expert fees, as international litigation can be expensive. A 2024 ABA survey noted 60% of injury clients prioritize transparent fee agreements.
- Communication and Empathy: Given the trauma of this incident, choose an attorney who communicates clearly and shows empathy. They should explain complex legal processes, like proving negligence under Saudi law or navigating insurance claims, in plain terms. Client reviews on Avvo or X posts about attorneys can reveal their responsiveness.
- Urgency and Deadlines: Act quickly, as Saudi Arabia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims may differ from the U.S. (typically 1–3 years). An attorney should confirm applicable deadlines and file promptly to preserve evidence, especially since the park is under investigation.
If you provide more details (e.g., your location, role as a victim or observer, or specific legal goals), I can search for attorneys or refine this advice further. Would you like me to look into local firms or specific legal strategies?