From food poisoning to ride malfunctions: What fairgoers should know about their legal rights

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. — As the Minnesota State Fair approaches, bringing with it crowds, carnival rides and no shortage of food options, attorney Chad Florin says fairgoers should understand who is legally responsible if something goes wrong.

Florin said the fair's structure makes liability more complicated than it might first appear. The event itself is run by the Minnesota State Agricultural Society, a state entity, but many of the businesses operating within the fairgrounds, including ride operators, vendors and other independent contractors, are private companies.

"One thing that you absolutely need to do is pinpoint exactly who is responsible at the end of the day," Florin said, addin...