Inspectors out in force at NC State Fair
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- The safety of the rides at the State Fair is a top concern for fairgoers especially after last year's accident involving a ride.
It is also a top concern for fair officials as inspectors went over each ride to make sure they were safe ahead of Thursday afternoon's opening.
Last year, the Vortex spun out of control and several riders were tossed off. One victim says he suffered severe brain and spinal cord injuries. Authorities say the ride operator tampered with safety mechanisms.
The carnival contractor, Powers Great American Midways, has been mandated to provide extensive information on previous safety problems and its insurance policy.
Since then, fair officials have also taken steps to dramatically reduce the number of subcontractors. The Vortex was a subcontracted ride.
However, despite alleged tampering with the Vortex ride, inspectors say they won't do random inspections throughout the 11-day event.
