Disney Sued Over Broken Fibula on Little Mermaid Ride
A Pennsylvania woman is suing Disney after she suffered a broken fibula while riding the Little Mermaid-themed ride at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. Deborah Montgomery, 61, had been waiting to board the Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid ride in August 2024 when her left foot became lodged in a six-inch crevice between the cave wall and the floor.
Montgomery was using an electric mobility scooter due to chronic arthritis. The complaint alleges that the crevice was caused by excessive running and cross slopes, which are more than four to seven times applicable codes. Disney's designers prioritized aesthetics over guest safety, claims Attorney Alan Zibelman, who is representing Montgomery.
The incident left Montgomery confined to her first floor for over a year, unable to continue her normal life due to severe and permanent shock to her central nervous system. Her husband, Matthew, has also filed a complaint, claiming loss of consortium and suffering from deprivation of his wife's aid, comfort, society, and companionship.