It seems that the settlement in the Kevin Rodriguez Zavala case against Universal Orlando has triggered five more lawsuits over injuries suffered on the Stardust Racers attraction at the new Epic Universe park.
Zavala died from trauma after riding the coaster on September 17, 2025. Now the floodgates for lawsuits are open, all filed by Attorney Nicholas Spetsas.
According to WESH, the lawsuits are being filed against Universal and Mack Rides “by individuals who claim they suffered injuries while riding Stardust Racers… with each plaintiff claiming that while riding Stardust Racers, their heads shook violently and repeatedly due to improper restraint of their head, neck, and spine, resulting in severe and permanent injuries.”
The alleged injuries include “severe neck pain, paralysis, disability, mental anguish, and loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life” with each suit claiming that the “victim’s” head shook violently.’
Spetsas told WESH, “his clients hope their actions will spark change.” I’m sure they want money as well.
Not the end of the lawsuits
The attorney says he expects more lawsuits. I’m sure he does.
What is wrong with Stardust Racers?
I think the issues are arising from the restraint system, which is just a lap bar without a shoulder restraint, making the ride “rough.”
Not that a shoulder restraint would completely stop one’s head from violently shaking. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a chest restraint, and my head hits the restraint sides so much that I don’t ride it, and I would take my earrings off when I did.
My hope is that these lawsuits won’t spark people visiting Epic Universe to ride the attraction for the sole purpose of claiming injury for a payday. Not saying that people weren’t genuinely injured, but the attorney made it clear that he expects more lawsuits.
The difference was that Zavala died.
Evidence of injury provably caused by the attraction will be key.
What do you think? Comment and let us know!
Pirates & Princesses (TM) (Stylized as PNP) is an independent, opinionated News and Information site focused on Travel, Entertainment, Fashion, the “Geek Girl” Lifestyle, and more. We focus heavily on Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando Resort, and other themed entertainment and travel destinations. Our news staff includes former theme park and entertainment industry employees, journalists and dedicated pop culture and theme park enthusiasts. Opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of this site, our affiliates or our sponsors.