Backyard Trampoline Injuries
Trampoline injuries have accounted for as many as 100,000 emergency room visits every year, as of 2016. Doctors see broken bones, strains, neck, spine, and head injuries caused by accidents on backyard trampolines. Children’s injuries account for more than 90 percent of fractured bones from trampoline use. When multiple kids use a trampoline, the risk of injury increases.
Common causes of trampoline accidents include:
- Falling off the trampoline
- Colliding with another person
- Flips gone wrong
- Landing on the metal springs that support the trampoline
- Landing on the trampoline as someone else is taking off
Preventing Backyard Trampoline Accidents
It is important for residential trampoline owners to take safety precautions because – most importantly – they can prevent injuries. Also, in the event of an unfortunate accident, a trampoline owner who does take safety precautions will fare better in court, should they face a personal injury or premises liability lawsuit.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission offers several guidelines to minimize accidents and prevent trampoline injuries:
- Allow only one person on the trampoline at a time.
- Do not permit flips or summersaults.
- Place the trampoline away from buildings, trees, or other structures.
- Always supervise children on the trampoline.
- Choose a trampoline with a safety enclosure.
- Never use a trampoline with a ladder that may give un-supervised children access.
- Do not use a trampoline without shock absorbing pads.
Liability and Trampoline Accidents
State laws regarding trampoline injuries vary from state to state, but trampoline owners are generally considered liable for injuries if their negligence led to a preventable accident. Homeowners have a legal obligation to exercise reasonable care to protect the safety of visitors to their property.
When it comes to the backyard trampoline, homeowners need to make sure the equipment is properly assembled, maintained, and in good condition.
Homeowners also need to supervise visitors and make sure the trampoline is used properly.
Some states hold homeowners on the hook, even if they take every available safety precaution. In these states a trampoline is considered an “attractive nuisance” that may encourage neighboring children to use it. This designation obligates homeowners to a “heightened duty” in order to protect children from injuries, even if they are trespassing.
In some cases, the trampoline manufacturer may have produced a defective product, or another user may also be liable for injuries.
Piscataway Slip and Fall Lawyers at The Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Help People Injured by The Negligence of Others
Trampoline injuries are not only painful, but they can result in costly medical expenses.
To discuss your legal options regarding a trampoline accident, contact the Piscataway slip and fall lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr. Our personal injury attorneys have been on both side of slip and fall accidents, giving them invaluable perspective to lead your case.
We offer free initial consultations to discuss your situation and assess if you have a valid claim. To schedule yours, call 732-537-8570 or complete the online contact form to get started today. Our offices are located in Highland Park, New Jersey, and we serve clients in Middlesex County, including the communities of Highland Park, Somerset, New Brunswick, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, Colonia, and throughout New Jersey.
