Importance of Reading the Fine Print in Streaming Service Subscriptions
In a recent wrongful death lawsuit against Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, the family of a New York woman who passed away after dining at a Disney Springs restaurant brought to light the importance of carefully reading the fine print in streaming service or smartphone app subscriptions. The lawsuit raised concerns about the subscriber agreement included in the Disney+ service, which required customers to settle any legal disputes through arbitration.
Details of the Lawsuit Against Disney
The lawsuit involved the tragic death of Kanokporn Tangsuan, a New York doctor who suffered a fatal allergic reaction after dining at an Irish pub in Disney Springs. Despite informing the waiter about her severe food allergies, Tangsuan was reassured that the food was allergen-free. Tragically, she experienced difficulty breathing shortly after the meal and passed away in the hospital. The lawsuit revealed the negligence in handling her food allergies and the subsequent fatal outcome.
Consumer Protection and Legal Agreements
Disney’s defense in the lawsuit highlighted the subscriber agreement signed by the woman’s husband, which included a clause mandating arbitration for any disputes with the company. This raised concerns about the lack of negotiation opportunities for consumers and the challenges in understanding complex legal agreements when signing up for services. There is a growing recognition among policymakers and federal regulators of the need to address these issues and protect consumer rights in the digital age.
Transitioning from the specifics of the lawsuit to the broader implications for consumers, it is clear that transparency and clarity in legal agreements are crucial for ensuring fair treatment and accountability in cases of negligence or harm. By supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing consumer protection and advocating for clearer terms in subscriber agreements, individuals can empower themselves to make informed choices and seek justice in situations of wrongdoing.
