Roller coasters are generally very safe, with the risk of injury being extremely low compared to many other activities. According to data from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the chance of being seriously injured on a fixed-site amusement park ride in the U.S. is about one in 15.5 million rides, and the odds of dying on a roller coaster are roughly one in 170 million rides

. Injury rates average around 0.9 injuries per million rides, with roller coasters having the highest injury rate among ride types but still very low overall

. Most injuries tend to be minor, such as fainting, nausea, dizziness, or lacerations, though more serious injuries like head trauma, back and neck injuries, or falls can occur but are rare

. Some medical studies have raised concerns about the effects of high G-forces on riders, particularly those with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or heart issues, as these forces can potentially cause blood vessel damage or strokes

. However, such cases are exceptional. To ensure safety, riders should always follow park safety rules: use restraints properly, obey height and health restrictions, remain seated during the ride, and avoid riding if intoxicated or impaired

. Amusement parks maintain detailed safety protocols and regularly inspect equipment, but personal responsibility is also key to minimizing risk. In summary, while no activity is without risk, roller coasters are among the safest amusement park attractions, with very low odds of serious injury or death when safety guidelines are followed