The Dangers of Defective Playground Equipment

Playgrounds are obviously popular among children and considered an excellent resource for parents who want to keep their kids active and entertained. They can be found in local parks, school yards, and even inside fast food restaurants.

While playgrounds have become safer over the past few decades or so, there is still a possibility that they may contain defects which can seriously harm children. When accidents occur due to defective playground equipment or an inadequately designed playground, children and their parents may be entitled to financial compensation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 200,000 children in the United States are treated in emergency rooms for playground-related injuries each year. Approximately 75% of all non-fatal playground-related injuries occur on public playgrounds, mainly at daycare centers and schools.

The following are common causes of defective playground equipment accidents:

  • Negligent playground design
  • Poor maintenance or construction
  • Inadequate warning signs
  • Inadequate ground cushioning
  • Exposed hardwood
  • Entrapment hazards
  • Poorly anchored equipment
  • Ladder defects
  • Loose screws or fasteners

However, not every playground accident is actionable. Physical activity can inherently put someone at risk of injury and many playground accidents occur because of a child’s own carelessness or clumsiness. If you believe your child suffered injuries caused by defective playground equipment, you should always have an attorney review your case.

Contact Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation and request a free consultation with our Los Angeles product liability lawyer today.

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