A woman has filed a lawsuit against Disney World, seeking $50,000 in damages, after experiencing an "injurious wedgie" on a waterslide at the popular Typhoon Lagoon water park.
Emma and Edward McGuinness filed the lawsuit in Orange County, Florida, detailing the incident that occurred during their visit to the resort's water park in 2019.
The lawsuit specifically focuses on Emma's painful trip down the Humunga Kowabunga slide, which consists of three body tubes spanning a total length of 214 feet. The ride concludes with a nearly five-story drop in complete darkness, reaching speeds of approximately 40 mph before plunging into the pool.
According to the plaintiff, Emma was celebrating her 30th birthday at the water park and was wearing a one-piece bathing suit when the incident occurred. She alleges that Disney failed to adequately explain the safety protocols, such as crossing one's legs, and did not address the increased risk of injury for women due to their anatomy and swimwear.
The lawsuit states, "When a rider of The Slide reached the bottom of the ride and traveled into the pool of water designed to stop further travel, the force of the water can push loose garments into a person's anatomy an event known as a 'wedgie.' Because of a woman's anatomy, the risk of a painful 'wedgie' is more common and more serious than it is for a man."
Emma's injury, categorized as an "injurious wedgie," could have been prevented if Disney World had provided instructions on appropriate clothing for the Humunga Kowabunga slide, according to the lawsuit. It suggests that wearing shorts or other protective clothing could act as a barrier, preventing clothing or water from being forced inside the body upon impact with the pool.
The lawsuit further claims that Disney does not provide instructions for riders to wear protective clothing, nor does it make such garments available. Additionally, it alleges that Disney fails to warn riders about the potential risks of injury if protective clothing is not worn while using the slide.
Following the incident, Emma experienced immediate and severe internal pain, with blood rushing from between her legs when she stood up. She was promptly taken to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with severe and permanent bodily injuries, including vaginal lacerations, a full thickness laceration causing her bowel to protrude through her abdominal wall, and damage to her internal organs.
The McGuinness couple argues that the slide is "unsafe and unreasonably dangerous" and accuses Disney of negligence. Their lawyer, Alan Wagner, and Disney World have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Login