Five Lawsuits Filed Alleging Injuries on Universal Orlando’s Stardust Racers Ride

Five new lawsuits have been filed against Universal Orlando and ride manufacturer Mack Rides by riders who say they were injured while riding Stardust Racers at Universal Epic Universe.

The lawsuits, filed by attorney Nicholas Spetsas, allege negligence related to the attraction’s design, operation, maintenance, and control. Each plaintiff claims that while riding Stardust Racers, their head shook violently and repeatedly due to what they describe as improper restraint of the head, neck, and spine. According to the complaints, those conditions led to severe and permanent injuries.

The lawsuits list injuries such as severe neck pain, paralysis, disability, mental anguish, and loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life.

The filings come as a settlement was reached between Universal and the family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, who died after riding Stardust Racers in September 2025, with attorney Ben Crump raising concerns about the ride’s restraints. In that case, however, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office issued a final report concluding there was no negligence on Universal’s part. Universal’s internal investigation, which was reviewed by local authorities, found that the ride’s systems functioned properly and that Universal Team Members followed established procedures. The State of Florida also observed and reviewed ride testing as part of the investigation.

Despite those findings, Spetsas said his clients hope their lawsuits will lead to changes. He also stated that he anticipates additional lawsuits could be filed in the future as more riders come forward with similar claims.