AUSTIN, Texas – Opening weekend for the new COTALAND Austin theme park at the Circuit of the Americas quickly transitioned from excitement to anxiety for some thrill-seekers when the park’s Circuit Breaker roller coaster unexpectedly stopped not once, but twice.
The first incident occurred on Saturday with 19 riders aboard. The coaster vehicle halted in a vertical tilt position, leaving the riders safely secured for approximately nine minutes before it returned to a horizontal position, as reported by COTALAND to CBSAustin and KVUE.
The roller coaster experienced a second stoppage on Sunday. This time, the riders waited about two minutes before the vehicle resumed its normal position, allowing them to exit “normally,” according to statements from the park.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in either incident, and all riders were unharmed, requiring no medical treatment. This is a testament to the safety measures in place at the park.
COTALAND emphasized that the Circuit Breaker is equipped with multiple sensors and safety systems that continuously monitor the ride’s performance. Such safety features are crucial in ensuring the well-being of riders and maintaining operational integrity.
The park also noted that occasional operational stops are a normal aspect of running sophisticated amusement rides. This is in line with industry standards, where safety protocols are prioritized to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
