SeaWorld Alleges Visitor Was Struck in the Face by 'Snowy Egret' on Roller Coaster. The Bird Could Hold the Answers

SeaWorld Orlando is seeking to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a visitor who claims she sustained lasting injuries after being hit in the face by a bird while riding one of the parks roller coasters. The park contends that the bird involved was not a duck, as alleged, but a migratory Snowy Egret.

The incident, which occurred on March 24, involved guest Hillary Martin riding the Mako roller coaster. According to her complaint, a duck flew into her path and struck her face. Martin argues that placing the high-speed ride near a body of water created a zone of danger for bird collisions. She is pursuing damages exceeding $50,000 for permanent injury, disability, physical impairment, and lost earning potential.

In response, SeaWorlds attorneys filed a motion to dismiss, stating that their investigation revealed the bird was a wild Snowy Egret, a species native to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, rather than a duck. They emphasized that Martins claims are no longer true or factual, nor are such allegations actionable against SeaWorld.

SeaWorld also noted that Florida law generally does not hold property owners responsible for wild animals unless the animal was brought to or harbored on the property. The attorneys further claimed Martin declined immediate medical attention, opting to continue enjoying the park, and only sought treatment the following day.

The park challenged the assertion that proximity to water created a dangerous area, describing it as speculative. They argue that the incident could have occurred regardless of the waters presence and does not constitute legal liability.

The court is set to review SeaWorlds motion at an initial conference on December 8.

Analysis: SeaWorld's Defense Against Bird-Striking Lawsuit

SeaWorld Orlando is actively seeking to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Hillary Martin, who claims a bird struck her face while riding the Mako roller coaster. The park's legal team challenges the accuracy of Martin's description, stating the bird involved was a migratory Snowy Egret, not a duck as alleged.

The core of SeaWorld’s argument rests on Florida law, which generally does not hold property owners liable for injuries caused by wild animals unless the animal is deliberately harbored on the property. Additionally, the park emphasizes that Martin declined immediate medical attention, which could influence the assessment of the claimed injury.

SeaWorld also disputes the notion that placing the ride near water created a “zone of danger,” describing it as speculative. The company maintains that bird collisions could occur independently of the ride’s location and therefore do not establish legal liability.

The court will examine the motion during the initial conference scheduled for December 8, where the judge will decide whether the case can proceed or be dismissed based on these defenses.

Sources:

• SeaWorld Claims Guest Was Hit in the Face by ‘Snowy Egret’ on Roller Coaster. And Bird Itself Might Be the Key

Author: Lucas Grant
Lucas Grant is a sports journalist with extensive experience covering football and basketball championships. Known for factual accuracy and an engaging, dynamic writing style.