Injured While Ziplining or on a Rooftop Attraction? Know the Risk of Waivers in Vegas

Led by Preston Rezaee, Esq., The Firm is a premier personal injury law practice in Las Vegas, dedicated to delivering justice for accident victims. With a reputation for relentless advocacy and client-focused representation, The Firm ensures injured individuals receive the compensation they deserve.

Las Vegas is home to some of the most thrilling rooftop experiences in the world. From the SlotZilla zipline above Fremont Street to rooftop roller coasters, sky-high bars, and bungee-style jumps, the city knows how to deliver a rush. But what happens when thrill turns into trauma?

Many rooftop and high-adrenaline attractions require guests to sign liability waivers before participating. These documents can be intimidating—and many believe they leave them without legal recourse if they’re injured. But in reality, a waiver does not always prevent a personal injury lawsuit, especially when negligence is involved.

In this blog, we break down what you need to know about injuries at rooftop attractions and zipline venues in Las Vegas, including how waivers work and when they can be challenged.

The Rise of Rooftop Entertainment—and Its Risks

Vegas is famous for going vertical. Many popular attractions now sit atop skyscrapers, including:

• SlotZilla Zipline

• X-Scream and Big Shot at The STRAT

• Rooftop bungee swings and obstacle courses

• Sky lounges and party decks

• Hotel and casino rooftop pools with edge viewing areas

These experiences may be high on fun—but also high-risk, particularly when operators fail to maintain safety standards.

Common Injuries at Zipline and Rooftop Attractions

While accidents are rare, when they happen, the consequences can be devastating. Common injuries include:

• Broken bones or sprains from falls or crashes

• Neck and back injuries from abrupt stops or jerky harness systems

• Concussions or head trauma

• Cuts or bruises from poorly secured equipment

• Emotional trauma (especially in incidents involving sudden drop or panic)

Some injuries may stem from equipment failure, poor staff training, or inadequate participant screening.

Understanding Liability Waivers in Nevada

Most adventure attractions require participants to sign waivers of liability, which attempt to protect the business from lawsuits. However:

• A waiver is not always enforceable.

• In Nevada, gross negligence cannot be waived.

• A waiver may be invalid if it’s vague, hidden in fine print, or overly broad.

• Minors (under 18) cannot waive their legal rights, and parents cannot sign away a child’s right to sue.

So while you may sign a release form, it doesn’t give the operator a free pass to act recklessly or cut corners on safety.

When a Waiver Might Not Hold Up in Court

You may still have a valid legal claim even after signing a waiver if:

• Staff were inattentive, untrained, or ignored red flags

• The equipment used was worn down, poorly maintained, or defective

• You were pressured to participate without being properly screened for medical risks

• There was misrepresentation about the nature of the risks involved

• You weren’t given time or opportunity to understand the waiver

In these cases, a court may rule the waiver unenforceable, and you may proceed with a personal injury lawsuit.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Rooftop or Zipline Injuries?

Several parties may be responsible:

1. The Attraction Operator

If the business fails to train employees, inspect gear, or manage participants responsibly, they can be held directly liable.

2. Property Owners

If the attraction is part of a casino or hotel, the property owner may also bear responsibility—especially if they ignored safety concerns or failed to monitor vendors.

3. Equipment Manufacturers

If the injury stemmed from a product defect—like a snapped cable, faulty harness, or braking system malfunction—a product liability claim may apply.

4. Event Organizers or Promoters

If you were injured during a special rooftop event where alcohol, crowds, and risk combined, the event host may share liability.

What Should You Do If You’re Injured at One of These Attractions?

1. Seek immediate medical attention, even for minor injuries.

2. Take photos and video of the equipment, location, and any visible hazards.

3. Get witness contact info, especially if other riders or staff saw the incident.

4. Request a copy of the incident report from the venue.

5. Do not sign any additional paperwork or give a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer.

6. Contact a Las Vegas personal injury attorney to review your waiver and determine if you have a case.

What Compensation May Be Available?

If you can prove negligence or a defective product caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency room and medical costs

• Physical therapy or rehab

• Lost income or reduced earning ability

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional trauma

• Permanent disability or scarring

• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Tourist Injuries: Can You File a Claim From Out of State?

Yes. Many zipline and rooftop attraction injury victims are tourists. Nevada law allows you to file your personal injury claim here, even after you return home.

A local attorney can:

• Investigate your case

• Secure evidence from the scene

• Deal with the venue and insurance companies

• File a lawsuit if necessary

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney for Waiver-Related Cases

These cases aren’t simple. Operators often hide behind waivers and assume victims won’t challenge them. But The Firm, led by Preston Rezaee, Esq., knows how to:

• Challenge the legal validity of liability waivers

• Expose dangerous practices or equipment failures

• Identify all responsible parties

• Maximize your recovery for serious injuries

Don’t assume you signed away your rights—talk to us first.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. The content is based on the author's understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing and is not tailored to the specific circumstances of any individual or entity.

Nothing in this article should be construed as creating an attorney-client relationship or as a substitute for seeking legal advice from a licensed attorney. Legal matters can be complex and vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the case. Therefore, we strongly encourage readers to consult with qualified legal counsel for advice regarding their individual circumstances.

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