Playgrounds are a great place to bring your children and have them run around, play on the equipment, and burn off energy. They are also a great place for children to socialize and play with their peers. However, even though playgrounds are enjoyable, they do have their dangers.
One of the main causes of playground accidents is lack of maintenance of the grounds and the equipment. When the equipment is poor, broken, or worn down, these types of problems can cause slip and fall accidents and injuries. With most playgrounds, the equipment is subject to the weather every day. This wear and tear can cause significant damage to the equipment. Over time, ropes will fray, metal pieces will rust, wood rots, and pieces come loose or break, all creating an increased risk of injury.
What Are Common Playground Injuries?
Playground injuries are more common than most people think. The CDC compiles statistics on all types of injuries that people experience, including playground injuries. Every year in the United States, there are approximately 200,000 playground injuries that require the injured person to go to the emergency department for treatment. About 79 percent of injuries are due to falls.
Common playground injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, fractured skulls, bleeding of the brain, and swelling of the brain.
- Bone fractures of the hands, arms, ankles, legs, including compound fractures where the bone pierces the skin.
- Bruises, scrapes, and cuts.
- Strangulation.
- Shoulder fractures and dislocations from falling and attempting to brace oneself.
How Can Playground Slip and Fall Accidents Be Avoided?
There are a few ways you can prevent a playground slip and fall:
- Keep a watchful eye on your child. Make sure to watch your child at all times and check for potential hazards.
- Make sure gates, stairs, walkways, railings are secure. Inspect gates, stairs, walkways, railings, and other areas. Make sure nothing is worn, broken, or otherwise dangerous.
- Always properly use the equipment. Instruct your child to properly use the playground equipment, especially when going down a slide.
- Avoid wet areas. Try to have your child avoid wet areas; these areas can lead to slip and fall accidents.
- Try to use a playground that has soft materials. Look for playgrounds that have soft walking surfaces, such as wood chips or soft foam material, compared to ones that have concrete surfaces.
If your child has been injured on a playground, contact an experienced slip and fall lawyer who fully understands premises liability law. The negligent property owner may be held responsible for your child’s injury. A lawyer will investigate and determine who owns the playground and is liable.
Philadelphia Slip and Fall Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Can Help You After a Playground Accident
When your child suffers a serious playground injury, it can be a traumatic experience for everyone involved. Speak with one of our knowledgeable Philadelphia slip and fall lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC for legal assistance. Call us at 215-569-8488 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, Abington, Media, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.