Hello everyone! Since I always hear these common misconceptions about roller coasters, I thought I'd debunk them:

#1: Roller Coasters Can Fly Off The Track!

No they can't.

Ever since the early 1930's, roller coasters have been equiped with an innovative device known as upstop wheels (or pads). These wheels prevent roller coasters from leaving the track. They rest under the track to keep the train firmly planted.

There are a few exceptions however, as the "scenic railway" coasters of the early 1900's use a brakeman in the midle of the train to keep the train on the track.

There are few of these left.

#2: Speed Exaggeration

I hear this one a lot:

Hey this coaster XYZ goes like 300 mph!

Roller coasters travel, on average, around 40-50 mph. Launched coasters are often faster, around 60-80 mph.

The fastest roller coaster currently operating is Formula Rossa at Ferrari World is Abu Dhabi.

It travels at a top speed of 150 mph.

It uses a set of hydraulic cables to launch you to your top speed.

#3: Safey Of Roller Coasters

Roller coasters are extremely safe. You're more likely to be injured in a car accident or falling of furniture than being hurt on a coaster.

Coaster's restrain systems are either shoulder bars, where restrains are pulled down from above, and rest on your shoulders, or lap bars, which rest in front of you, and are pulled forward, or pulled from the sides.

In the unlikely event that these restraints fail, there are extra precautions, such as seat belts, or heavier restaints to keep you in your seat.

Roller Coaster accidents are very rare, and when they do happen, more often than not, they are due to rider error, not mechanical error.

Those are the three most common misconceptions about roller coasters!

These multi million dollar mahines are designed to maximize your safety, so sit back, relax, and enjoy your ride!

-Tycoon Master