Roller coasters: let the rider beware.
PURPOSE: 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.
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