Trampolining is a great way for kids to get physical exercise while having fun. Its popularity among families has led to a growth in trampoline parks in the US in recent years. Unfortunately, this has also led to a rise in trampoline-related injuries. More than 90% of all injuries caused by trampolines occur in children aged 5 to 14.
If your child has been injured by a trampoline in New Jersey, you may need an attorney. A personal injury lawyer in NJ will fight for you and make sure you’re compensated for your child’s injury.
Common Types of Injuries
The most common trampoline injuries among children are sprains and broken bones in the arms and legs, which occur from:
- Falls onto the springs or frame of the trampoline
- Falling off the trampoline
- Landing acrobatic flips the wrong way
There are instances of serious injuries to the head and neck and rare occurrences of paralysis. There were 22 trampoline-related deaths in children from 2000-2010 across the US.
How to Prevent Trampoline Injuries
You can take steps as a parent to limit the risk of injury to your child.
- Carefully Supervise Children Using Trampolines
Only allow one child on the trampoline at all times. Roughly 75% of injuries happen when two or more children are using the trampoline simultaneously.
Children 6 and under account for 22-37% of all trampoline injuries. Consider limiting their time and never leave them unsupervised.
Don’t let your children attempt summersaults or flips on the trampoline without an adult instructor. Your child could sustain a head or neck injury if they land the wrong way.
- Check the Trampoline for Padding
Make sure the trampoline frame is completely covered with padding. This includes covering all springs and hooks. If your child falls, the padding prevents them from being seriously injured.
- Prevent Falls From a Trampoline
Just under 40% of injuries are caused by falling off a trampoline. It’s important to keep trampolines as close to ground level as possible. Trampolines should be surrounded with safety netting.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If your child has been injured at a trampoline park, you need to seek legal advice. Serious injuries could mean costly medical bills. Contact us today for a free attorney consultation.