Playground injuries occur quite often – in fact, at an alarming rate. Each year, it is estimated that more than 200,000 children are seen in emergency rooms around the country for injuries that resulted at a playground. Playground accidents are also notorious for causing more severe injuries than bicycle and car accidents in children ages five to nine.
The most common causes of playground injuries are strangulation, and slip and falls. The most common non-fatal types of injuries include bone fractures, internal injury, amputations, concussions, traumatic brain injury, and dislocations. Playground injuries can also turn fatal, especially when serious falls occur.
Why Are Playground Injuries So Common?
There are a few reasons playground injuries occur so frequently, which include:
- Poor Supervision – The most common reason for playground injuries is improper, or a complete lack of, supervision. Children should be supervised (regardless of age) any time they are using playground equipment. This includes when at public parks, as well as on school property. When children suffer injuries, due to negligent or lacking supervision, the individual responsible for monitoring the children can be held liable for any injuries or damages that may occur.
- Poor Maintenance – Another common cause for playground injuries is improper maintenance. Playground equipment requires monthly and annual maintenance in order to remain safe. This includes taking care of sharp edges, dysfunctional components, and even removing slippery surfaces. The individual responsible for maintaining the equipment is also responsible for any injuries that occur, due to lack of proper maintenance.
- Poor Design or Construction – Sometimes it is not the maintenance, but the construction or design of the equipment itself. Poorly designed construction equipment can lead to injuries (including fatalities). For example, equipment with large openings may allow small children to accidentally fall through. These types of injuries are the responsibility of the manufacturer or company liable for installing the playground equipment.
What If My Child is Injured on a Playground?
If your child is seriously injured on playground equipment, you will need to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney. An attorney will need to first assess the responsible party. For example, if your child is injured on a school playground, then the school or the district may be responsible. If, however, your child is injured on a public park, the government entity responsible for that park and playground would be responsible.
Because playground injuries often include some sort of government agency, there are special requirements that must be met in order to file a claim. A New York personal injury attorney can assist you with this process, and ensure that your child receives the compensation deserved for the injuries.
If your child was seriously injured on a playground, due to someone’s negligence, contact the attorneys at Schwartzapfel® Lawyers, P.C. today. We can assist you with your family’s claim. Call us at 1-516-342-2200 to schedule a free consultation or fill out our online contact form with your questions.
