Restraint Systems: Six Flags Upgrades Coasters After Fatal Ejection

The death of a Georgia rider has forced Six Flags to reconsider the safety architecture of its high-thrill attractions. The company will install seatbelts on the Goliath rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, a change that directly addresses the mechanical failure that killed Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem.

Kariem, a 42-year-old father and educator, was ejected from his seat on Goliath earlier this month. The coaster features a 165-foot initial drop followed by an 180-foot second plunge. As Kariem fell, he struck other cars on the track. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the incident. The fatal event prompted Six Flags to temporarily close Goliath and eight other rides across five different parks.

CEO John Reilly stated on Friday that the incident "deeply affected all of us at Six Flags." Reilly confirmed that seatbelts will be installed on other coasters using the same restraint system, though he did not list specific attractions. Goliath currently uses a lap bar manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard that locks across the rider's waist. The park has also engaged an independent firm to review safety procedures for all its attractions.

This safety overhaul occurs while the company manages a separate legal dispute. A group of former riders alleges that the X2 coaster at Magic Mountain caused brain injuries and at least two deaths. Court documents accuse the park of operating a defective ride and exercising negligence by keeping it open. Six Flags permanently closed the X2 coaster in September. Reilly emphasized that "trust is earned through actions and not words," promising ongoing communication regarding progress.