Man sues Disney for $50,000 over injuries on Blizzard Beach waterslide

A man weighing 334 pounds has filed a $50,000 lawsuit against Walt Disney World, alleging negligence after he sustained injuries on a waterslide at Blizzard Beach. According to a PEOPLE report, Eugene Strickland claimed he was hurt while riding the Downhill Double Dipper in July 2021, and continues to suffer from the injuries nearly four years later.

Strickland said he briefly went airborne during the ride, which caused him to suffer "permanent catastrophic injuries." At the time, he exceeded the ride’s posted weight limit by more than 34 pounds (around 15 kg), the complaint stated.

He further alleged that the high speeds caused his inner tube to dislodge, resulting in a hard impact with the plastic slide surface. Strickland is seeking damages for physical injury, pain and suffering, scarring, disfigurement, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

The lawsuit accuses Disney of failing to properly maintain safe conditions, claiming the company was aware of potential hazards but did not take adequate steps to warn or protect guests. Strickland described the ride as a “concealed trap.”

Court records show the case is scheduled for a jury trial in May 2027. His attorney told PEOPLE, “Our client suffered serious injuries due to inadequate safety measures at Disney’s Blizzard Beach. We’re seeking justice and accountability for the harm caused.”