Trampolines abound throughout Kentucky; they come big and small, netted and open, and in various colors. In spite of their popularity, they are dangerous and can result in serious injuries, particularly to children.
Trampoline use results in about 90,000 emergency room visits every year around the country. The sheer volume of injuries caused by trampoline use means that most homeowners’ insurance companies will either not cover them at all, or will require an additional cost before coverage is provided.
The risks of trampolines have been well-recognized for over 40 years, which is when the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) began warning against their use. Even such a strong statement of warning hasn’t resulted in a lower use rate. Home trampolines and commercial trampoline facilities still abound.
Serious injuries are possible
Trampolines may be fun, but you have to wonder at what point the risks associated with using them outweighs any potential benefits (like exercise, fun, etc.). Given the high heights to which children can jump, the fact that kids often jump on them in tandem or in groups, the steel-coiled springs, the rigid aluminum frames and the stiff mat surfaces, it’s really no wonder that injuries occur with alarming frequency.
What may be surprising to most of us, however, is the type – and severity – of injuries that are possible. These include:
- Broken bones (particularly arms, fingers, noses, ankles and toes)
- Dislocation of the knees, hips, elbows and shoulders
- Concussions and other brain trauma (both from striking the mat surface and from falling off the frame)
- Lacerations requiring stitches or reconstructive surgery
- Torn or sprained muscles
- Ligament damage
- Strains and sprains, particularly ankles and wrists
Fun as they may be, the fact remains that trampolines are dangerous. If your child is injured on one belonging to another person, you may have a legal cause of action. Contact a skilled personal injury attorney in your area for more information.
