Playgrounds are meant to be safe environments where children and parents alike can relax and enjoy some time in the sun. Unfortunately, every year, over 200,000 children in the United States are treated in emergency rooms for playground-related injuries. While some of these injuries are caused by misuse of the equipment or lack of supervision, many others are the result of hazardous or defective playground equipment.
If your child was injured after playing on defective playground equipment, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your child’s damages in a premises liability lawsuit. The best way to learn about your rights and options is to speak with Mickey Fine in person. Please call (661) 333-3333 today to schedule your free consultation at our Bakersfield personal injury office.
Playground Injury Statistics
According to the Center for Disease Control:
- Around 75% of playground injuries occur at daycare centers and schools.
- Children from ages 5 to 9 are the most at-risk age group for playground injuries.
- Climbing apparatuses are the most common source of injury on public playgrounds.
Property owners and local government entities have a responsibility to regularly maintain the playgrounds under their care to ensure they are safe for everyday use. If a negligent property owner has failed to address defects in playground equipment or other unsafe circumstances on the playground, they can be held responsible for any injuries a child suffers as a result.
Safety Regulations for Playground Equipment
In order to keep playgrounds safe, property owners should abide by the highest possible safety standards for playground equipment. Some of the most important standards include:
- Cushioned ground surfaces should extend at least 6 feet beyond a piece of equipment. Swings and slides may require an even larger perimeter of cushioned ground.
- All equipment with moving parts should be located in a separate area, and must be inspected for “pinch points” that can crush children’s hands or fingers.
- Wooden equipment should be inspected for cracking or splintering, and metal equipment should be free of rust. The materials used should be durable enough to withstand inclement weather and frequent use.
- Equipment in need of maintenance should be designated off-limits.
- No protruding objects with sharp or awkward edges should be present. Bolts and S-shaped hooks can cut a child or tangle into their clothing.
- Ramps and platforms should have protective barriers installed, such as walls or guardrails.
If your child has been seriously injured because of unsafe playground equipment, please contact the Law Offices of Mickey Fine today to schedule a free case evaluation. Mr. Fine represents injured victims throughout the Bakersfield, California area.