Guest Dies at Walt Disney World’s Contemporary Resort

A tragic incident occurred at the Contemporary Resort in Orlando, which led to the death of a guest on July 26, 2023. This occurrence shines a spotlight on the importance of safety measures in resorts and the legal aspects surrounding personal injury cases. As personal injury lawyers based in Orlando, we feel it is our duty to clarify these legal matters that are likely to arise in such scenarios.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort, one of three deluxe resorts surrounding Bay Lake and a few steps from the Magic Kingdom, witnessed a severe incident. A guest fell from a balcony, with the distress call going out early at 5:44 am. This tragic event took place on North World Drive, the same location as the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower.

As details began to unfold, other guests at the resort were informed of a medical emergency, urging them not to step out onto their balconies. Following this, crime scene investigators and law enforcement promptly arrived at the scene. A tent was set up right under the balcony in question, which was cordoned off for the investigation.

While the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be revealed, it raises important questions about safety regulations and legal implications in case of accidents or incidents leading to personal injury or death at a resort.

Railing safety is of paramount importance, particularly on balconies in Florida’s numerous resorts, hotels, and residential buildings. Under Florida Building Code, the height of residential balcony railings should be at least 42 inches high, while commercial establishments require a height of 44 inches. Furthermore, openings between the railings must not allow passage of a sphere 4 inches in diameter for safety purposes, specifically preventing children from slipping through. Maintenance is equally critical; all railings should be routinely inspected for any signs of wear, corrosion, or instability. Ignoring these regulations and maintenance practices can lead to dangerous situations and potential liability for injuries or fatalities. Everyone, from property owners to management companies, must prioritize these safety measures to ensure the well-being of all guests and residents.

Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased in this tragic incident. We urge everyone, especially resort and hotel establishments in Orlando, to be cautious while on balconies and never leave children alone on a balcony.

If you or a loved one have experienced a personal injury in Orlando, we, as dedicated and experienced theme park accident lawyers, are here to help you navigate through the complexities of the law. Our attorneys at JustCallMoe strive to provide our clients with the highest level of legal assistance, helping them receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.