Not only is jumping on a trampoline fun, but it can also be fantastic for your health. Fitness experts rave about how it improves blood flow, provides a low-impact workout, and can improve balance. However, there’s a dark side to trampolines, and new data is coming to light about the hidden dangers of trampoline parks. After several high-profile injuries occurred at these facilities, lawmakers are stepping in an effort to make these parks safer. If you or a loved one happens to have been injured at one of these parks, however, your best bet is to contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney that can help you get the compensation you deserve.
The Growing Number of Trampoline Parks
The rise of trampoline parks in the US has grown exponentially, from just 40 in 2011 to 800 in 2019. Globally, there are more than 1,000. As expected, the number of injuries has also grown to epic proportions. States have begun adopting more rules and regulations as kids have sustained injuries leading to paralysis, and there have been at least six confirmed deaths over the past seven years at trampoline parks. We estimate that the number of deaths is significantly higher, but not all of these accidents are reported in the public domain, especially if the case went to arbitration and the family signed a confidentiality agreement. Life-altering injuries from trampoline parks are becoming sadly more common, and lawyers around the country are inundated with cases.
Some of the most frequently reported injuries include:
- Broken necks and backs
- Dislocated and open-fracture elbows and shoulders
- Broken limbs
The number of emergency room visits has also skyrocketed in the past five years, from 2,500 in 2013 to nearly 18,000 in 2017. Some of the most egregious violations in trampoline parks today are a lack of supervision, placement of the trampoline flush with hard, thinly padded walls, and foam pits that are too shallow to provide adequate protection.
State Regulations
Several states have passed laws to make trampoline parks safer. The regulations require oversight from insurance companies and annual inspections. New Jersey, unfortunately, is not yet one of these states, which potentially increases the risk of injury of trampoline park enthusiasts. New Jersey businesses are still required to provide safe conditions, or risk facing a premises liability lawsuit. If someone is hurt due to a defect or negligence, they could be entitled to compensation for injuries and financial damages. Trampoline parks that neglect proper safety for their customers could be held liable for injuries. Don’t let the signs posted convince you that you’re signing your rights away in the event of an injury. Companies are still subject to premises liability. Get in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney at Greenberg & Walden for the help you need with your case.
The Ric Swezey Story
One of the most high-profile injuries that occurred resulted in the death of Ric Swezey, a world-class gymnast. As he was enjoying a local trampoline park with his family, he landed on his foot wrong, stumbled, and fell. He collided with an adjacent wall, which broke the C2 vertebra in his neck. The crack in the vertebra cut off his blood flow and airway passages, instantly paralyzing and killing him within minutes on site.
Are Trampoline Parks Safe?
The International Association of Trampoline Parks defends their safety and blame facilities that don’t follow the industry’s technical standards or safety procedures. In response to the jump in injuries, the association is administering stricter standards with a plan on enforcing them. Unfortunately, 75% of the trampoline parks in the US aren’t members of this association or subject to its rules. Trampoline park enthusiasts are unknowingly risking their lives every time they enter one of these facilities. If you or someone you know has been injured contact the law office of Greenberg & Walden for a free consultation.
