SeaWorld Claims Woman Hit By Wild Egret, Not Duck, Seeks Lawsuit Dismissal

SeaWorld Orlando filed a motion to dismiss Hillary Martin’s lawsuit, arguing she was struck by a snowy egret rather than a duck while riding the Mako coaster on March 24th. Martin originally sued SeaWorld on October 27th, claiming a duck knocked her unconscious and caused permanent injuries. The park contends it cannot be held legally responsible for “a wild animal’s actions” since the egret is a wild migratory bird. SeaWorld also stated Martin refused medical transport because she “wanted to keep going in the park and did not want to be held up any longer” and didn’t seek treatment until the following day. The company disputed Martin’s claim that SeaWorld created a “zone of risk” by placing a high-speed coaster near water. A hearing is scheduled for December 8th. (Story URL)