Universal Orlando Resort and coaster manufacturer Mack Rides are facing a negligence lawsuit. A Georgia mother claims her minor son suffered permanent head, spinal, and neurological injuries on the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal Epic Universe.
Jennifer Lundy of Valdosta, Georgia, initiated the legal action on August 17, 2026, in the Orange County Circuit Court. The case was later transferred to federal court in September 2026. Lundy is seeking over $75,000 in damages. The funds will cover past and ongoing medical treatment, loss of capacity for enjoyment of life, and potential future loss of earning capacity for her son, identified in court documents as L.L.
Details of the Stardust Racers Incident
According to court filings, Lundy’s son boarded the 62 mph dual-racing coaster with his father on October 13, 2025. The lawsuit alleges that extreme gravitational forces generated during the ride caused the child to lose consciousness. The ride vehicle featured a lap-bar restraint that provided no upper-body support. Because of this, the unconscious child allegedly slammed his head against the vehicle structure.
The complaint asserts that L.L. sustained severe and permanent injuries to his head and face. He also suffered orthopedic and spinal damage, which required immediate medical attention upon exiting the attraction. The plaintiff contends that Universal Parks & Resorts failed in its obligation to operate and control the ride in a reasonably safe condition. The lawsuit also claims Universal neglected to properly warn guests of associated safety risks.
Context Surrounding Universal Epic Universe’s Coaster
The October 2025 incident occurred just nine days after Stardust Racers reopened. The ride had previously closed following a fatal tragedy on the same attraction. On September 17, 2025, guest Kevin Rodriguez Zavala was discovered unconscious after riding the coaster. A medical examiner later attributed his death to multiple blunt impact injuries.
Following Zavala’s death, his family filed a lawsuit against Universal Orlando Resort. That case concluded with a confidential settlement in December 2025. In response to that tragedy, Universal updated safety policies for Stardust Racers and several other thrill rides. The updated rules mandate that guests using mobility devices must board independently on foot rather than receiving physical assistance during transfers.
Legal Claims and Ongoing Status
The current lawsuit against Universal and Mack Rides points to alleged negligence in the ride’s design, maintenance, operation, and control. Neither Universal Orlando Resort nor Mack Rides has issued a public comment regarding the federal lawsuit.
Despite the legal challenges and prior incidents, Stardust Racers remains open and operational at Universal Epic Universe under the revised safety guidelines.
Key Details of the Lawsuit
- Plaintiff: Jennifer Lundy (Valdosta, Georgia)
- Defendants: Universal Orlando Resort and Mack Rides
- Incident Date: October 13, 2025
- Filing Date: August 17, 2026 (Transferred to federal court in September 2026)
- Damages Sought: Over $75,000
- Alleged Injuries: Head, face, orthopedic, and spinal trauma due to lack of upper-body restraint
Frequently Asked Questions
What ride is the subject of the lawsuit?
The lawsuit involves Stardust Racers, a dual-racing roller coaster located in the Celestial Park land at Universal Epic Universe.
Who filed the lawsuit against Universal Orlando?
Jennifer Lundy, a resident of Valdosta, Georgia, filed the lawsuit on behalf of her minor son, L.L.
What damages are being sought in the case?
The plaintiff is seeking in excess of $75,000. This money covers medical care, ongoing treatment, loss of capacity for enjoyment of life, and potential future loss of earning capacity.
Who manufactured the Stardust Racers roller coaster?
Mack Rides, a prominent German amusement ride company, designed and manufactured the roller coaster. They are also named as a defendant in the lawsuit.
Has Universal Orlando made any public statements about the lawsuit?
As of September 2026, neither Universal Orlando Resort nor Mack Rides has issued a public comment regarding the litigation.
