Quadriplegic Suing Disneyland For Leaving Him Stranded On ‘Small World’ Ride

February 8, 2011 1:55 PM

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ANAHEIM (CBS) — It’s the happiest place on Earth, but one man says it is not if you’re disabled.

San Pedro resident Jose Martinez, a quadriplegic, is suing Disneyland after a 2009 incident which left him stranded on a malfunctioning “It’s A Small World” ride.

Martinez says the other guests on the ride were evacuated, but he and his wife were left behind for 40 minutes, even as he suffered a medical emergency.

Disney cast members helped Martinez onto the ride, but told him they couldn’t help him out from where the ride stopped.

“No one came to us, which I felt was another potential deadly situation,” Martinez said. “I told my wife, I said,’ they want us to roll to first aid? I don’t think we’re gonna make it.’”

In the 40 minutes stranded on the ride, Martinez suffered from dysreflexia, a condition experienced by those with spinal cord injuries caused by stress and overstimulation. Dysreflexia can lead to a stroke or death.

The Disability Rights Legal Center is representing Martinez, accusing Disneyland of violating federal and state laws and being unable to evacuate disabled guests in the event of an emergency. The lawsuit is seeking policy changes and unspecified damages.

Martinez says his lawsuit is about making sure theme parks are accessible to the disabled.

“This is Disneyland, for crying out loud,” he said.

A spokesperson for Disneyland said they had not seen the lawsuit and could not comment.

Quadriplegic Suing Disneyland For Leaving Him Stranded On Small World Ride

Mike

Any excuse to file a lawsuit. Even if he is disabled, this guy is a complete loser. So file the lawsuit and seek changes to policy, what makes him think he is entitled to damages. Like i said before, WHAT A COMPLETE LOSER!. I hope he dosen’t get a red cent.

David

I saw this story last night as did one of my personal assistants about Mr. Martinez. I am disabled with cerebral palsy and a seizure condition. I have also worked for a social services agency (one of the largest in the state) and a law firm when I was living in Nevada. I can relate to this because of my own history and the things I’ve been through. The commenter Mike should be ashamed of himself not only for his inhumane comment, but also for the apparent lack of basic human understanding and feeling. You deserved to be pitied.
If this had happened to me, I wouldn’t stop at suing Disney (and I would), but make it my mission to paint Disney in the most unfavorable public campaigns. As for myself, I will never step foot at Disneyland or buy their products. I will also ask my friends and others in my community to do the same. Boycotts do work!!! Mr. Martinez has my full support and I will do my best to boycott the Disney corporation as a whole.
Mike, I invite you to live ONE day in my wheelchair.

Kevin

I sometimes think that Sparta had the right idea, this would be one of those times. If you know you have a problem then you should not go on a ride where you know something may go wrong, do it at your own risk and if you do take responsibility no one made you go on the ride, you are not entitled because you are disabled. Now you are going to say, but something can happen on the way to the store in the car, and yes it can, something can happen anywhere but it was you that put yourself in that situation so accept some responsibility for your decisions instead of suing everyone, sometimes life sucks. And by the way, go ahead and boycott Disney they can survive without your money and the rest of the world won’t keep their kids away because of it, and it will reduce the wait times.
Claire

David,
Many of these people are ignorant idiots that are more concerned with spewing hate than having compassion. But what would you expect from pathetic losers who take everything they get for granted, including their health.

I am a firm believer of Karma-what comes around goes around. While I do not wish anyone ill, the universe will take care of these unintelligent, uneducated, poor excuses for human beings. You get out what you put in.
Rhonda

My son is in a wheelchair and I can totally see his point. Ones who speak negatively about this have no idea what its like being treated differently. Living your life at others chest level with so many limitations is bad enough but when something like this happens, it makes one feel like things will never get better or change. We ( I say that because I live my sons life with him), dont live “normal” lives. Atleast people can treat us normal. Its really discouraging to see this happen. I am not sure about the gaining money out of this but pushing to make things change would be a great and positive thing. Mike, I hope that you will never need to be in a wheelchair but if you ever do, GOD forbid, you will see the struggles of the ones that HAVE to be in one every minute of their lives. Have some understanding for those less fortunate than yourself.
MissDaisy

Disability does not equal entitlement…take responsiblity for putting yourself in a dangerous situation to begin with…think and do for yourself. My wheelchair says “Don’t do amusement park rides!”
Tracy Brooks

David, my boyofriend has CP and uses a power wheelchair. Have you ever been to Disneyland or Walt Disney World. They have fantastic accessibility when it comes to rides and shows.

We have been evacuated off a ride in WDW but I would think the procedures would be the same. There are rules the Cast Members (Disney Employees) had to follow. In our case they have to have the Reedy Creek Fire Department come to witness them turning the ride vehicle and be there while Bill exited the ride. We were there for over 30 minutes. It was for his SAFETY.

We applaud the Disney Company for having those procedures in place. We will continue to happily go to the Disney parks knowing that even though it might take more time to get Bill off the ride (and having to listen to those songs for a long time) we know he will be taken care of professionally and courteously.
SuzyQ

On rides like Small World, and Pirates there are certain things that have to be done, procedures and such, for evacuating guests in wheelchairs. Regular attractions cast members are not allowed to lift guests out of the ride. They have to call the fire department and it does take them awhile to get there sometimes. The fire department then has to tie the boat off and lift the guest out. It is for their SAFETY.
Disneyland caters to the disabled as much as possible. Are you guys saying they should have left every other person on the ride until after they got the ONE guy in the wheelchair out?
in the know

first off

Mike is a family member.

second Joe Martinez is a well know con artist. he makes his living suing people, as well as committing illegal fraud.

this is a frivolous lawsuit which i can tell you personally that i heard him plan out.
He specifically went to Disneyland That day in order to create a lawsuit. I was in his home when he was making these plans. Just ask his nieghbor, Joe Martinez ripped him off for over $100,000

Steff

Mike-People like you are the reason that our children are so damn ignorant today. This poor man could have DIED on this ride, and you’re going to call him a loser because he doesn’t want the same thing to happen to someone else?

People like you are teaching our children to be rude and disrespectful to people who aren’t exactly like them. A friend of mine, who happens to be deaf, spoke at an inner city high school in Syracuse a few days ago. She was mocked and totally disrespected , perhaps not just because she is deaf, but that was definitely one of the reasons she was so disrespected.

This man has the RIGHT to be treated just like everyone else! There is absolutely no tolerance of ignorance toward those who are “different” in my household. My four year old daughter has more respect than you do.

I personally doubt that this man is filing a lawsuit because he wants to strike it rich. He probably just wants equal rights.

MissDaisy

He didn’t die. Coulda, woulda, shoulda
Kev

Steff,

People like you are the reason that things like this happen and why our kids are so delicate. Someone says I was discriminated against and you immediately yell that’s not fair lets legislate so it gets fixed. as if we aren’tt broke enough already, lets give everyone a trophy hey the superbowl wasn’t fair, the Steelers must feel bad, that’s not fair, from now on the fiar thing to do is give everyone in the NFL a trophy for playing, after we’re all winners right?
ebby

Steff, Other than Disney, please tell me where people, who are quadriplegic or just wheelchair bound, are thought of and included when designing amusement rides/experiences. I do not think any exist. I think this man sees easy money & . I think he is trying to destroy the “magic” for all those w/disabilities who go to Disney. I hope people w/disabilites come down hard on him & I hope that Disney turns this around in positive P.R. for them. If you have never been to Disney, I must tell you they really excel at making it magical for ALL.
kozmo

how many other times has this man sued for damages? wiyh a handicap some things in life are off limits,,even a small world whichhe should stay in. we cant afford to make everybody egual,it juast isnt possible.
Tazzman

If he could have died on the ride, then maybe he shouldn’t have gone on the ride? If you doctor tells you that you have liver disease, and drinking alcohol will kill you, do you just keep on drinking anyway?

Lets see.. I’m going on a boat. Surrounded by water. It could sink. I can’t swim. But hell, I’ll go anyway, what’s the worst that can happen. Somebody will risk THEIR life to save mine, right?
in the know

To Steff

I am very sorry to say that you are 100% wrong!
This Guy Is suing just to get rich.

I live here in San Pedro
and here in San Pedro
Joe Martinez is Well known as a con artist,
that sues all business for profit
His wife who is a nurse helps him in these cons
Joe Martinez also has a Brother named Alex Martinez
those two team up and sue not only business
but also come up with cons the steal money from innocent individuals as well

heather

he was STRANDED on a RIDE you moron! Do us all a favor and take yourself out of the gene pool.

Ick

Where in the story did it say that Disneyland personnel abandoned him? Where did it say they failed to do what they could to get him off the ride. Being wheelchair-bound, if Disneyland personnel had to help him actually get on the ride in the first place, wouldn’t you assume that if something were to happen, you would not be able to get off the ride without assistance? I am sure they did what they could to get him off the ride as soon as safely possible. If I were Disney, I would agree to only one thing, his request for a policy change and change the policy to restricting the ride from wheelchair bound individuals. How’s that for policy?

“Party’s over everyone! Jose f%$#ed it up for everyone!”
Laredo

Ick, you took the words right out of my mouth. This “victim” put himself in that situation, and he should realize and accept the consequences. And yes, Disney SHOULD restrict the ride only to able individuals, for the very reason that a medical emergency could occur that simply couldn’t be dealt with in a timely fashion. That’s not discrimination, that’s life.

junior

While Mike might not be PC, this man waited OVER a year to file this lawsuit. Why, because he was probably sitting around the table one night telling this story and some fool in his family said sue and let’s live for free courtesy of the bleeding hearts in that broke state of California.

sillybilly

when you see a long timeframe before a lawsuit is filed, that usually indicated an attempt to settle between the lawyers for both parties that did not work out. the filing of a suit is therefore a further attempt to get a settlement….no lawyer in thier right mind actually wants this type of suit to go to trial.

Kate

I agree.
jack sparrow

I agree. it is a shame folks have special needs, but such is life. it is a two hour wait to get on this ride and this guy waltzed right on with his handycapp pass.. stuff breaks.. again it is not the end of the world. u saved 2 hours and now u lost 40 minutes. sounds like he still came out ahead, but now he wants cash.. groups like this don’t see the economy is bad and they put the price up everywhere.. next they will want cranes in theme parks on call if something breaks down.. do your boycott. go to another country and see how u get treated..
Salie

how does that make him loser? please clarify.

kosmo

low life sponge on the rest of us. are you two related?

CA562DUDE

This happen in 2009 ??? Get a LIFE!!!! If this was so Serious why wait for soo long to COMPLAIN ???? You should have did this atleast a couple of days if this was SO SERIOUS!!!! What a Total Loser… Yes I said it ” A TOTAL LOSER “

CorrineM

I don’t think it says in the article, but in the video he says it took this long to get someone to represent him.

Alan C Rhine

ANOTHER LOW LIFE WITH A BOTTOM FEEDING LAWYER TRYING TO MAKE A BUCK AT SOMEBODY ELSE’S EXPENSE

I’m a nurse

The low life is you for making ignorant comments and judgments on subjects you have no knowledge in.

notlovinLA

And how would you know whether Alan C Rhine had any knowledge on this subject, I’m a nurse? You’re obviously not educated enough. Go back to nursing school or find something else to do with your pathetic life.

in the know

i know joe martinez personally.
he is a professional conartist.
he ripps off everyone he can
He personally stole $40,000 from my gym
he sues people by going around town looking for handicap violations
then he threatens lawsuits

also he commits fraud by collecting disability
then not reporting all the money he is rolling in!!!

you should see this guys apt
its a luxury apt with an ocean view

i personally know over 10 people Joe Martinez
has ripped off.!!!

this makes me sick

i wish someone would put a stop to this man.

oh ya heads up everyone
he’s about to change his name too
so he can continue his cons under various names.

email me if you have any info on this loser

we are trying to put together a legal case against him.

socalmal

Forcing anyone to run their business how you want, to me is always wrong. However, since they allowed him in the park and then on a ride, they should have gotten him off of it reasonably also. Without hearing exactly what happened, I will withhold judgement. Let me say tho, no monetary settlement over admission fees. Courts & lawsuits are getting beyond reality.

DT

The thing is, there are federal regulations to ensure that the safety of EVERYONE is not at risk. The argumentof forcing people to run their business however they want is in he same vain as was used during racial segregation. This is segragation of able-bodied and non-able bodied.

Sara

Goodness. Please learn how to spell.

Susan

Wow most people wait longer than 40 minutes to get on a ride at Disneyland so what’s the big deal?

I’m a nurse

Get informed… That’s the big deal.

notlovinLA

And you know ALL the fact, don’t you I’m a nurse? You are SO well-informed of this situation, aren’t you? You’re an idiot. Get a real life.
Craig

Sure, get responsible. It’s disgustiong that we have to change how we do things for everyone all the time because it isn’t fair to them. I believe that going places like this is a priviledge not a right and if they couldn’t get him out there is probably a reason, do you expect everyone to put themselves in a bad spot because someone can’t do it for themselves? How is it that everyone is entitled in this country now instead of being responsible for themselves? You want to complain and have things changed, fine, you want to sue and get money then the only problem you have is greed.
kosmo

nurse,your an idiot to even log on
AnnieMay

Why don’t you get informed? Guests with certain disabilities (wheelchair bound, etc.) almost never have to wait in a line as long as those without. They cut about 2 hours off of almost every ride on a normal day of operation. Disney has certain procedures when dealing with wheelchair bound guests that get stuck on rides. The fire department has to be called and they will have to, god forbid, wait for about a half hour before they can be SAFELY lifted out of the ride.

David

Hey,
It’s a big deal if you CAN’T stand up and walk away. Believe me — I am a disabled man of 45 and have lived as I do all that time. 40 minutes can seem like an eternity, especially if you are or feel abandoned. Needless to say, Disney wouldn’t want me presiding over this case. The disabled are not people to be pitied — we are exactly like everyone else. I just wish people would get back to reality.

Drew

I understand that 40 mins abandoned could be a long time but they did not abandon him. They have policies to follow which relies on the fire and rescue squad to be there.
I completely understand that the needs of the disabled are important but so is the understanding of corporations when making policies to try to prevent lawsuits.

What if the adores helped him off and they weren’t strong enough to move him? More than likely a lawsuit….. It should be told to every disabled guest that enters the park that there may be a long wait to exit because of policies but they can’t predict when something like the medical emergency that this guy will happen.
in the know

this guy Joe martinez is a con man
he has coned Me personally
as well as many in his local area of San Pedro
and other areas

he planned this with his wife.
who is a nurse

that is probably the nurse that is responding in these comments.
its actually his wife who is also a part of the cons that they constantly are involved with.

he is a horrible man
that hurts people
and steals their money

Sarah

The big deal is he needed medical attention and was stuck. It has nothing to do with him being inconvenienced.

I’m a nurse as well

Exactly! Why do people keep overlooking this very important point?

I’m a nurse

Dysreflexia is a life threatning condition for spinal cord injury patients. Unfortuantely this person did not anticipate the stress and anxiety caused by the evacuation nor the reasons for it. It’s not his fault.
Disneyland should have strategies in place to accomodate the safe evacuation of handicap persons without regard to type of condition.
If there had been a fire, would Disneyland staff simply let them die simply because they didn’t have a way to evacuate? People pay PREMIUM money to visit their establishement, they should be up to par with guest relations and services.

As for the lawsuit, he has a right to compensation as his life was put in danger as a result. Most people will not and cannot understand that because they do not understand the suddeness and emergent condition of
dysreflexia, so stop judging!

I invite all of you to read up on what dysreflexia is, it’s causes, and potential outcomes.

Because of the bureacracy of negotiation and litigation, I assure you Disneyland was well aware of this in 2009…well BEFORE any lawsuit
was filed. But the nature of the beast is to outlast and outspend any potential claim until people go away or the claim goes to trial. So, no, the victim didn’t wait until now to file a claim.

Stop judging and get informed! Oh, and learn to have a little compassion, it might do you well.

Disneyfan87

I agree that it is a serious condition and I feel bad that that happened to him for as you said he didnt expect the stress. However in the situation of a fire rides do things differently under different situations. Most times (because not everyone does it) with the handicapped line, you are talked to about the procedures before entering the ride. The cast members job is to get guest out as safely as possible but do remember that they are responsible for their safety as well. When doing a walkthough you are to speak to each guest and tell them to wait. Some rides take longer to evacuate than others.

I’m a nurse

Dysreflexia is not only serious, it’s life threatning. No one is saying that the employees are not trained in certain situations, but you all cannot possibly be expected to handle every situation. This is when you would ABSOLUTELY call your nurses or medics to respond. THAT is where the training needs to be!
As for the example of the fire, it was just that, an example. Training needs to be undertaken with ALL your guests in mind and any potential situation that arises.
No one is saying it was the employees fault, but a breakdown of communication and a lack of training is where Disneyland went wrong.

notlovinLA

What’d you do, copy and paste that info from WebMD? The comments you’ve displayed here certainly don’t lead me to believe you have any intelligence whatsoever. I hope i never have you as a nurse. THEN my life would be in danger. Idiot.

I’m a nurse too

Notlovinla,
of course you would say that ignorant fool.
I have nothing to prove you. But word to wise, this isn’t about me..it’s about
this article. Intelligent people argue the point at hand: they don’t attack eachother!
Get a life.
notlovinLA

They don’t attack each other? I’m pretty sure I’ve read some attacks coming from you in this same article. Isn’t that a little hypocritical? I love it when stupid people prove my own point about them! So thank you for proving to the world that YOU’RE STUPID, I’m a nurse! Or should I say “I’m a STUPID nurse”?
I AM A NURSE

@notlovinla,
thank you for proving my point! You have NOTHING of substance to offer, u poorly educated pathetic loser.

Since you want to make this about attacking me, I’ll do the same.

I’ve seen other posts from you and you NEVER have anything to say except insult people, must be because you are a bitter old man who has nobody in his pathetic life waiting for him. I feel sorry for the likes of you…you destroy what you don’t comprehend which is EVERYTHING!
Sad little old man! You spew hate because that’s all you’ve ever known.
Get some help, there might be hope for you yet! I will pray for you!
David

Are you a Republican?
Kevin

No, but you are an idiot. What is it if all else fails use that or the race card to prove your point? You are quick to defend this guy without even hearing the other side of the story, so sorry that your heart is bleeding so much but Disney deserves a chance to present their side of things as well. This isn’t a debate on politics it is a debate about personal responsibility and integrity, something you are showing none of by spewing hatred towards an entire group of people, something you yourself are saying is intolerant and wrong. I guess that only counts if it is something you believe in though and you don’t care about anything else. This is about someone who put himself in a position to have something bad happen then blaming others when it did. But to answer your question no I am not a republican, I hate both political parties since they are both a bunch of greedy criminals in office for themselves to gain money and power and not represent the best interests of the country, but worse are sheeple like you who believe anythng they are told and follow it like good little robots.
Kevin

No, but you are an idiot. What is it if all else fails use that or the race card to prove your point? You are quick to defend this guy without even hearing the other side of the story, so sorry that your heart is bleeding so much but Disney deserves a chance to present their side of things as well. This isn’t a debate on politics it is a debate about personal responsibility and integrity, something you are showing none of by spewing hatred towards an entire group of people, something you yourself are saying is intolerant and wrong. I guess that only counts if it is something you believe in though and you don’t care about anything else. This is about someone who put himself in a position to have something bad happen then blaming others when it did. But to answer your question no I am not a republican, I hate both political parties since they are both a bunch of greedy criminals in office for themselves to gain money and power and not represent the best interests of the country, but worse are sheeple like you who believe anythng they are told and follow it like good little robots.
Claire

Justin,
You tell me, since you know all about it. STUPID MORON.
notlovinLA

I’m a (stupid) nurse, you couldn’t be more wrong about everything you’ve just said. You’re so wrong it’s comical! Then again, you being wrong and looking stupid is normal for you. I’ll bet the other nurses have to fix everything you touch. Being pushed out of the way for stupidity is probably something you’re used to. You’re an idiot. Go back to school. I’ve already prayed for you AND your patients. God help them.

jaclyn

I completely agree with you,,,you and David are the sane voices on this thread,,,glad there actually are some.

David

To Claire, Rhonda and Jaclyn,

I went to bed last night disgusted and furious at people’s stupidity and ignorance. The issue of “entitlement” is almost a non sequitur. What is relevant is that Mr. Martinez was treated in a manner none of us (disabled or not) would stand for. Disney has a responsibility to the community to be mindful of their consumer’s expectations and thusly respond to them. I’m just glad to see there are still people with a sense of compassion. Isn’t it ironic they are all women. I’ve been to a lot of concerts (mostly, metal/hard rock) and I’ve seen more respect from the people there than I do in daily life.
Ladies, you have my ever-lasting respect and empathy. For your son, Rhonda, I hope his life continues to be a healthy one and allow him to be himself. I salute all of you, Ladies!!!!

steve

While this mans situation is most definitely unfortunate I’m sure DL was doing all it could to get him off the ride SAFELY! With a condition as serious as this I would not want 2 security guards or ride attendants trying to move a person unless there was immediate peril such as a fire. Sounds like Disney acted in his bes interest by not moving him and letting the professionals do the job they are trained for
steve

You said it yourself — “Unfortunately this person did not anticipate the stress and anxiety caused by the evacuation nor the reasons for it” End of story – it IS his fault!

Disneyland is responsible for safe rides – not saving lives. The ride is safe and warning are posted everywhere concerning preexisting conditions.

Disneyfan87

being how I used to work there and just as recently as last year I can say that the employees are trained in how to deal with emergency situations. Not to say that it isnt a stressful situation as guest dont know but most likely the ride just broke down and him frustrated got tired of waiting, I rather wait and make sure I am properly evacuated without getting hurt than be rushed and then sue anyways for someone hurting me because I was rushed out. people find any excuse. Im sorry but just because the title is Disneyland doesnt mean ppl are entitled to anything. People don’t expect Knotts berry farm or six flags and just as valid theme parks.
I’m a nurse

Stupidity at it’s finest.

notlovinLA

Again, showing your stupidity, aren’t you I’m a nurse? You should change your ID to I’m a stupid nurse.

Norma

Another person looking for a free ride., The incident ocurred two years ago and now this idiot is trying to sue two years later. Somebody should kick him out of his wheelchair and use him as third base in a girls softball game. Deport this ungrateful guy. Mexico will know what to with him. He brings shame to our hard working, legal Mexican decent citizens.

I’m a nurse

Norma,
You are a dispicable human being… Ignorant and evidently VERY uneducated.

Mike

I’m a nurse,

You sound really really smart with all your big words. To bad GOD forgot to give you any common sense. This idiot knew what his condition was, and maybe he should have used better judgement and not gone on the ride. He does not deserve a dime in return for his lack of judgement.

Maybe if you were not so IGNORANT and UNEDUCATED, you could have been a doctor.
HEAD NURSE

NURSE, YOU’RE AN IDIOT, WHO OVBIOUSLY IS RELATED TO THIS JERK OFFFFFFF.
Claire

Head Nurse,
What are you the Head Nurse of? Stupid moron.
Justin

If you are going to insult people at least sound like you have some form of education. “Stupid moron”? what does that even mean it’s sort of a double negative which is grammatically incorrect, or you live in the foothills with dad and aunt mommy.
Claire

What a stupid moron! YES, STUPID MORON!
I guess you would know wouldn’t you?
HiVeloCT

DOn’t let the ignorant idiots whose prejudice and bigotry blind them to common sense and compassion get you down. These folks are their own worst enemy and the hatred they spew will eventually back up and drown them in their own bile. Think of it as a “hate reflux” disorder.
notlovinLA

The pot calling the kettle black, huh I’m a nurse? Hypocrite.
Claire

SHUT YOUR PIE HOLE! You ARE a poor excuse for a human being! You obviously lack intelligence…since all you have done is bash the obviously educated, well informed people. You on the other hand have nothing worthwhile to say notlovinLA. All your postings are ridiculous rants that you have neither read nor understood, but responded to. Nothing says ignorance more than your asinine comments. I too pity you.
Justin

Well posting a reply saying that someone didn’t read or understand their own comments speaks volumes about ignorance as well, wait you just did that, HMMM.
notlovinLA

Hmmm, it seems you’re a hypocrite too, Claire. You point the finger at me for attacking people yet didn’t you just do that to me? I’ve read your other comments before and you’re just as much an attacker as anyone. Ridiculous rants? Have you read any of the other comments being made here? Seems to me that they could be construed as attacks. Even the educated, well-informed people (supposedly like I’m a nurse, although I’d argue that) you have mentioned are just as guilty of attacking people and calling people names as the next guy. You have now just fallen into the “I’m a hypocrite too” category. Losers everywhere I turn….

Oh… How can I shut my pie hole? My thoughts don’t have sound other than the clickety-clack of the keys on my keyboard. Another stupid person saying stupid things. :Sigh:
MissDaisy

You need to shut up and get off of here.

Kate

Norma, you’re disgusting to assume this man is illegal. Racist pig.
Susan

Norma, you’re disgusting and sub-human.

Dave

@ mike,well said!
LOU

MIKE YOUR A IGNORANT AND UNEDUCATED FOOL IF YOU ARE A NURSE GOD HELP US ALL!!!! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT THE HELL YOUR TALKING ABOUT, YOU AND NORMA SHOULD GET TOGETHER….YOU WORTHLESS EXCUSE FOR HUMANS….

notlovinLA

No, actually, Mike is quite well spoken and obviously very smart. You, on the other hand, I cannot say the same thing. Perhaps you never finished school?

I’m a nurse too

Notlovinla
you have NOTHING valid to offer…all you have done is attack people.
I think the one who didn’t finish school was you. You are dispicable, poor excuse for a human being who leads a pathetic life. Get real, and argue something worth arguing, but don’t strain yourself…with your 3rd grad education!
notlovinLA

Your stupidity and hypocrisy is running rampant, I’m a (stupid) nurse! You attack me and say that I’m not intelligent because I attacked you with my words. Let’s see what you’ve had to say in this article… You called Alan C Rhine a low life, david stupid, Norma a despicable human being, and me all of the above. WOW! Who’s the ignorant low life now? I don’t even need to say it. Everyone knows it’s YOU! I would quit nursing and focus your time and energy on further education in Hypocrites 101. And when you’re done with that course I would look into How To Fix Stupidity. There’s isn’t much hope for you though. I feel sorry for your patients.
I AM A NURSE

I pity you. I REALLY pity the likes of you.

Youre a sad sad little old man.
David

I hope when you’re a little old, decaying man you end up in a convalescent home. There’s nowhere better to be for you. Saves us all from listening to you.

Mike

Lou,

You’re a moron, who ever said i was nurse?????Not me, i was replying to “I’m a nurse.” Why don’t you read my comment throughly before making your stupid comments. You make yourself look like a complete idiot.

If i was a nurse, i could help you remove your head, because it is stuck WAY up there.

Lindsay is a loser

@mike
What an idiot! Thank God youre not a nurse!
Mike

Lindsay the loser,

Your name says it all!
Kevin

@Lindsay,

If you are going to call someone an idiot quit leaving the apostrophe out of the contractions in your insult.

ANGELA

Hope this isn’t the Idiot who travels around measuring doors and soap dispensers!
Justin

If this guy knows that stress can kill him, why is he going to Disneyland and riding rides? Bad judgment, taking no personal responsibilty. See’s a chance to make some money. I wonder where else he’s had unexpected “stress”? Restaurants, retail stores, Knott’s Berry Farm?$$? If I were a wise old Nurse, I’d suggest he’d stay home and download movies, don’t stray too far from the house. Let’s not forget he IS a quadriplegic.

HiVeloCT

Are you saying the guy should have been worried about stress when riding It’s a Small World”? Are you really that stupid?

Justin

No, I’m saying the guy would be an idiot not to worry about stress at an amusement park as overcrowded as Disney. It doesn’t matter what ride it is the place is so overcrowded with people it is sure to cause great deals of stress in that alone. Glad you put so much thought into my comment when reading it.
Jason

So are you saying there is NO stress associated with riding Small World?? So, are YOU as stupid as this guy is for not considering what could happen on a RIDE? Every adult with the SLIGHTEST bit of a brain has avoided situations because we’ve thought about the potential outcome. As a quadriplegic, i’m sure he does it more often than usual. He’s a sleaze.

greg sands

I agree lou! people talk about other people until it happens to them so as for all of you like Angela, Mike, Norma, Dave etc; just hope that GOD keeps you healthy because as far as im concerned I wish you’ll all become Quads then you’ll keep your mouths shut. Have a nice day.

Mike

Greg Sands,

It’s not talking about people you idiot, it’s showing common sense. You’re obviously another BRIGHT one. I never said one thing about the guy being a quadripligic …..did i? Unlike you, i don’t wish bad on anyone. I simply said, this guy used bad judgement, and should not get a dime.

So, you have a nice day MORON!

Claire

Mike,
You too have nothing of substance to contribute. Why are you soo bitter? Has life treated you so rotten that you spew hate just like notlovinLA?
How hypocritical of you to say that you dont wish anyone any ill, yet you make comments that are mean spirited by calling this person a loser. You are no better, sir. You too are a despicable human being.
notlovinLA

Wow, Claire, your hypocrisy is also running rampant. I’m beginning to think you’re I’m a nurse, just using a different name. Has anyone told you recently to look in the mirror when you make accusatory comments?
notlovinLA

Oh, and AMEN, Mike!

David

Greg,

Great one!!!!!!!

sheri g

justin so your saying women should stay in the kitchen and
Gays in the closet, and blacks in the back of the bus…. your a raciest a hole

Justin

No, that would harm none of the parties mentioned in your post, however, the person in question knew that stress could be fatal to him and chose to go to the most overcrowded amusement park in America. Just saying if you know something is potentially lethal and do it anyway take responsibility for your decision.

MissDaisy

To Justin,

He went because disabled folks go to the front of the line…crowds don’t matter…we get “Special” treatment! I think this man is a complete low life looking for a settlement from Disney…pretty soon they’ll have a sign saying “NO ACCESS FOR INDIVIDUALS IN WHEELCHAIRS” Wonder if he tried any of the rollercoasters?

Oliver

Greg, that’s not nice. God didn’t keep Jose Martinez healthy. Why do you suppose? So he could go on to teach Disneyland a lesson?

If he was sincere about just helping handicap people, why is he giving interviews on the news? Why embarrass Disneyland? I’m sure Disneyland will make any necessary adjustments.

I also find his statement, “but he and his wife were left behind for 40 minutes, even as he suffered a medical emergency.” hard to believe.

Also, from the video, I couldn’t see what was so stressful. He was completely still, on calm seas. Maybe he “worked” himself up. I hope he didn’t have too much traffic on the way to Anaheim to San Pedro.

He should amend that last statement he made in the article to say, “This is Disneyland, for crying out loud, NOW PAY ME!”
Alyssa

So, wait, they’d help him on but not help him off? What good does that do? That doesn’t make any sense. He literally couldn’t move, not to mention suffered a life-threatening condition on their ride. If he had died, there would have been an even bigger lawsuit filed by his family. And just because he is disabled does not exempt him from common human courtesy nor the joys of life. What is he supposed to do, stay in his house for the rest of his life? There is a terrible notion in this country that the disabled do not deserve a normal life.
http://topsy.com/losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/02/08/quadriplegic-disneyland-not-ready-to-help-disabled-in-emergencies/?utm_source=pingback&utm_campaign=L2 Tweets that mention Quadriplegic Suing Disneyland For Leaving Him Stranded On ‘Small World’ Ride « CBS Los Angeles — Topsy.com

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Adam Kirby, Heather ;D. Heather ;D said: maybe quads shouldnt ride certain rides. “@KNX1070: Quadriplegic: Disneyland Not Ready To Help Disabled In Emergencies http://bit.ly/hHvfIF” [...]
ed rooney

Easy solution to this- don’t be disabled.
next case.

Jason

HAHAHAHAHA!!! I CACKLED!!!
David

Ed,

Better idea… Return your brain to the maker — it’s defective like you!!!!!!!

ed

And I bet this clown still goes to the park and makes the emplloyees kiss his butt. I cant wait until i read that he is suing them because his bottled water was too cold. just another waste of courts time and taxpayer dollars
Andrea Parenteau

These comments are comical:)

I;m a nurse as well

Actually, they are sad. I am very disappointed by some representatives of humanity here.

I’m not a moron

It’s “I’m.”

OChipster

I used to work this attraction a couple of years ago for about 5 years, and I have to say, It seems complete sketchy what this guy is saying. In a event of a evacuation, If the employees comes up to someone who says that they are unable to walk/get out of there boat, the employees are required to call the 911 and explain the situation to the guests who are not able to get about. Also, they have an employee with the guests to make sure they are alright and wait until the paramedics or the fire department arrives to get them out. The only reason why an employee wouldn’t be with him is if they are about to get the ride back up, or if the guest says they are completely fine and able to wait. And another thing, it is not possible for no one to pass him because of where he is (which you can clearly tell that it is the exit) dozens and dozens of employees will have to pass him if they want to evacuate the people inside the ride and if he was having an emergency, he would’ve told an employee that he was having an emergency because one is required to stay there until THE ENTIRE ROOM is empty and in each of these rooms, there are phones, so they can call 911.

Those of my 2 cents. I mean it does suck to be stuck in the ride for 40 minutes, but I don’t think he’s telling the whole story.

Also, a FULL evacuation of that ride is about 3 hours long. So, the whole ride couldn’t be evacuated before him.

jaclyn

This seems to be the most common sense response on here,,,especially from someone who knows.

David

Hey,
F-OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!
Trisha

Haha.
Talkeetna101

“notlivingLA’. I am sure LA hates you, too. I also hope that you are the next person to become totally and permanently disabled, by legal standards and then you can learn all about being disabled, first hand. You are an arrogant, vindictive, non-feeling, uncompassionate low life and your time will come, when you will pay your ‘full measure’. When it happens, I hope you find the same love and compassion that you have for others, especially ‘I’m A Nurse’, who I am certain has much more experience in dealing with and seeing what people, less fortunate, than yourself, go through every day of their life.

To all else who ‘despise’ the disabled man and think he is just looking for a fast buck, God will show the same mercy to you, as you have shown to others.

‘notlovinLA’ and “HEAD NURSE’, you are both hypocrites and are both blacker than Toby’s a@@, when it comes to pots and kettles!

jaclyn

Did you really say “toby’s a*s*s” ? wow,,, i was so with what you were saying til that came up,,, discrimination against the handicapped is the same as discrimination against blacks so now you are no better than all the losers on here who put down the disabled. Terminology like this isnt acceptable in a forward-moving society.

David

Jaclyn,
Yeah, words DO hurt… These “people” are probably ignorant, little trolls — can you say “Republican”? Let me buy you coffee sometime – we can laugh at these idiots!!

notlovinLA

You’re another idiot, Talkeetna101. First off, I’ve had nothing to say about the man in the wheelchair. I began to comment on his misfortune and noticed too much stupidity being commented here, especially coming from I’m a (stupid) nurse. Listening to the things she’s said I seriously doubt there’s an ounce of compassion in her… same goes for you. That’s why I pity her patients. Now I pity you too, you pathetic loser.