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Reports of Catastrophic Injuries at Trampoline Parks

trampoline parkTrampoline parks have grown in popularity across the U.S. and are part of a billion-dollar industry. However, the industry remains largely self-regulated with no federal oversight. Because of this, parks are less restricted to follow strict safety rules, which can lead to poor supervision and poorly-maintained equipment.

Unfortunately, the lack of oversight has caused thousands of injuries at trampoline parks each year. It is estimated that there were almost 18,000 trampoline injuries in 2017 according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and many injuries are not reported. This is because many people who suffer a trampoline park injury are often forced into arbitration and must sign confidentiality agreements.

CBS News reports that at least six people have died from injuries at trampoline parks within the last seven years. In Utah, legislators recently passed new legislation in an effort to make trampoline parks safer. Utah now joins seven other states that have required more oversight from insurance companies and annual inspections.

Potential Hazards at Trampoline Parks

One of the dangers with trampoline parks is the design. Trampolines are connected together with steel cables or chain links under the padding. An impact with the frame or springs can lead to significant injury. While padding is typically used to cover the edges of a trampoline, it may become worn or poorly positioned. Thinly-padded walls can also be extremely dangerous and lead to head trauma upon impact.

Double bouncing is a common cause of trampoline injuries as a result of high-impact collisions. Double bounces happen when there are two or more people on the trampoline jumping at the same time. Several things can happen ”“ a double bounce can produce an even bigger bounce ”“ which can cause smaller children to bounce over and off a trampoline. It can also throw off the trajectory for a jumper, leading to unexpected collisions.

Catastrophic Injuries at Trampoline Parks

Trampoline accidents can cause severe, life-threatening injuries and even death. Children are especially at a higher risk of injury when they jump on trampolines due to their smaller size and weight.

A former gymnastics coach with over 40 years of experience has been an expert witness in more than 200 cases against trampoline parks since 2011. The most catastrophic injuries he has seen are broken necks, broken backs, and dislocated and open-fractured elbows and shoulders.

Trampoline injuries have also resulted in permanent neurological damage. Even lower extremity injuries have been reported, including sprained or fractured ankles, broken feet and broken legs.

How Arizona is Addressing Trampoline Accidents

Since 2014, Arizona has set safety standards for trampoline parks. It was the first state in the U.S. to regulate indoor trampoline parks.

Under state regulation, trampoline parks must register with the Arizona Department of Fire, Building and Life Safety and are required to maintain and submit annual documentation to verify that they are licensed, insured and have passed an inspection per American Standards for Testing and Materials standards. Each park must also submit a log of injuries that occur at their location.

Legal Claims for Injuries Sustained on Trampolines

Trampoline parks should be run by professionals who follow strict safety rules and keep the equipment well-maintained. When that trust is broken, you may be able to hold the park liable for any injuries sustained. Proving liability in any case requires an in-depth investigation and knowledge of the law. This is why it is so important that you have an experienced personal injury lawyer in Phoenix, AZ on your side.

Our legal team at Phillips Law Group understands how a sudden accident can change your life and we will fight to protect your best interests and help you recover the compensation you deserve. To discuss your potential claim, schedule a free consultation with us today. There are no upfront fees unless you win.

Call us now at 1-800-706-3000 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form.