Lawsuit Against Disney World for Wrongful Death

Disney guests feel a sense of security while being inside the “Disney Bubble.” Unfortunately, Disney is now being sued due to a wrongful death caused by an allergic reaction.

Allergies at Disney

The Walt Disney Company prides itself on offering both choice and variety for guests with food allergies. These are available at table service and select quick-service restaurants.

On October 5, 2023, Kanokporn Tangsuan dined at the Raglan Road Irish Pub at Disney Springs with her husband, Jeffrey Piccolo, and his mother. Tangsuan had a severe allergy to dairy and nuts.

According to the wrongful death report, Tangsuan told the server of her severe allergy to both dairy and nuts. She went on to ask him several questions about the ingredients in different dishes.

Lawsuit

The server verified that these dishes could be prepared with special care for these allergies. Typically throughout Walt Disney World, dishes prepared for specific allergies are marked with a wooden skewer. On this occasion, no markings showed that the dishes that these dishes were allergy-free.

When Tangsuan asked again about her dietary concerns, the server confirmed that these dishes were prepared to her dietary needs. The three enjoyed their meal and then Tangsuan went shopping on her own.

About 45 minutes after the meal, Tangsuan had difficulty breathing, and an epi-pen was administered. Tangsuan passed away at a local hospital. The medical examiner stated that her death was due to anaphylaxis caused by “elevated levels of dairy and nuts in her system.”

What you need to know

In this case, the husband filed a lawsuit on February 22, suing Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts, Inc. for $50,000 for pain and suffering, loss of income, medical and funeral expenses, and more.

Guests may consult with a chef or special diets-trained Cast Members before placing an order.

Disney shares on its website, “About our allergy-friendly menu items: Guests may consult with a chef or special diets trained Cast Members before placing an order. We use reasonable efforts in our sourcing, preparation, and handling procedures to avoid the introduction of the named allergens into allergy-friendly menu choices.” You can read more about dining at Disney with allergies HERE.

Do you think this is a one-time instance or do you think more should be done to protect those with food allergies? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.