Six Flags Ignores Guest’s Accessibility Request, Fined Over $54,000

A federal judge has ruled against Six Flags in a pivotal lawsuit over its failure to provide an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, marking another controversy in the theme park giant’s tumultuous year.

Fresh from its merger with Cedar Fair, Six Flags—now encompassing parks like Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Cedar Point—has faced heightened scrutiny over its accessibility practices.

The latest lawsuit stemmed from a visit by Melvin Patterson, a deaf guest, to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, California. Despite purchasing gold-plus tickets, Patterson was denied an interpreter after weeks of ignored emails, contradictory instructions, and mismanaged policies.

His repeated attempts to request accommodations under the park’s “Attraction Access Program” were met with silence or redirection to unhelpful resources. Patterson ultimately sued, alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act.

Six Flags argued that its seven-day notice policy absolved it of responsibility, claiming Patterson failed to follow proper procedures. However, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Kimberly Mueller dismissed this defense, asserting that corporate policies cannot override legal mandates for accessibility.

“Defendants ignored Patterson’s emails, directed him to three different policies, gave him contradictory instructions, and never offered an interpreter,” Mueller stated, per Courthouse News.

The court awarded Patterson over $54,000 in damages, including $18,209.88 in actual damages and $36,000 in statutory penalties. While the ruling did not deem Six Flags’ failure intentional, it highlighted glaring gaps in the park’s accessibility practices. Despite having an ADA compliance supervisor, Patterson’s requests were never escalated, and staff training on disability accommodations was deemed inadequate.

This ruling not only holds Six Flags accountable but also grants Patterson a role in reforming the park’s accessibility policies. Judge Mueller instructed him to propose measures requiring Six Flags to provide sign-language interpreters, implement comprehensive ADA training for staff, and conduct regular compliance audits.

Andrew Rozynski, Patterson’s attorney, praised the decision, calling it a reminder of the ADA’s critical role in ensuring inclusivity. “This decision reinforces the importance of equal access to public spaces,” Rozynski told Courthouse News Service.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom has not yet commented on the ruling, but the case underscores the ongoing debate over the park’s “Attraction Access Program.” Critics argue that the program’s reliance on third-party verification and onerous requirements alienates guests with disabilities, further eroding trust in the company’s commitment to inclusivity.

What are your thoughts on Six Flags’ approach to accessibility?