Ride safety inspections draw scrutiny after fatal fall

Following the fatal Oct. 12 fall from Six Flags Over Georgia’s Goliath roller coaster, Georgia officials are investigating while Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King says the rides were inspected before the season; his debate opponent, Keisha Waites, called for thorough checks before the park reopened. Separately, North Carolina inspectors were examining rides as they were assembled for the State Fair, checking bolts, restraints, welds and other components, with inspections required each time rides move to a new location. Elitch Gardens in Colorado described daily ride checks, manufacturer-guided recurring inspections and annual reviews, with staff empowered to shut down a ride if anything seems unusual. Ride safety also drew attention as the South Carolina State Fair opened, amid questions about inspections.