Murphy v. Steeplechase Amusement Co. – Case Brief
Murphy v. Steeplechase Amusement Co., 250 N.Y. 479, 166 N.E. 173 (N.Y. 1929).
Case Summary:
Facts: Steeplechase Amusement (D) operated an amusement park. A ride known as “The Flopper” featured a moving belt which, when stepped upon, would cause a customer either to fall or to be pushed up an incline. Murphy (P) tried the ride after watching other customers enjoy it. Murphy knew that falling was a potential risk. Murphy claimed that the belt jerked when he got on, causing him to fall and resulting in a fractured knee. P sued, claiming that the belt was dangerous and was not properly equipped to prevent injuries. The trial court entered judgment in favor of P and D appealed. The court of appeals affirmed.
Issue: Is an amusement park liable for damages to a person who sustains injuries on the ride when it is reasonably foreseeable that some danger is involved?
Holding and Rule: No. The amusement park is not liable for any damages if a customer sees and understands the dangers of a ride because the customer has assumed the risk.
Disposition: Reversed and Remanded.