Two people had their legs amputated after the collision on the Smiler ride in June last year, while three others suffered life-changing injuries.
The five most seriously injured victims were in court in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, as the theme park’s owner, Merlin Entertainments, pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety rules.
District judge John McGarva said the firm faces a “very large fine” when it next appears at Stafford crown court on 20 May, with the figure possibly reaching seven figures.
“We welcome the guilty plea entered by Merlin Attractions Operations Ltd,” Neil Craig, head of operations for HSE in the Midlands said. “Merlin has acknowledged that it failed in its legal duty to protect people on the Smiler ride. Those injured on 2 June last year had every right to expect a carefree and fun day out.
“The incident was profoundly distressing for everyone involved, both physically and mentally. It left some with life changing injuries. We hope this first milestone will help those affected to continue their recovery from this tragic incident.”