A new study suggests that emergency room visits have increased as more trampoline parks around the country have opened their doors in recent years.
Between 2010 and 2014, there was an average of 92,000 trampoline injuries nationwide. Although the majority of injuries happened on home trampolines, the number of injuries from trampoline parks increased more than ten times during the length of the study. By 2014, park injuries accounted for nearly 7,000 emergency visits.
Injuries at trampoline parks are often more severe than injuries that occur on a trampoline at a private residence. Spinal cord injuries and serious leg fractures are a major concern. Sprains are 61 percent more likely to occur at a trampoline park compared to at home. And dislocated joints are more than twice as likely to occur at a trampoline park.
If your child or someone you love has been injured while at a trampoline park, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and medical expenses. Speak with one of our skilled personal injury attorneys today for a free case evaluation.
Increasing Popularity of Trampoline Parks
The number of trampoline parks throughout the country surged from just 40 in 2011 to 450 in 2014. Roughly five or six parks open every month. These parks include wall-to-wall trampolines and some have padded walls. The parks have relatively strict rules about jumping behaviors and every participant is required to sign a waiver before jumping.
Interestingly, researchers note that trampolines were never intended to be backyard toys. Instead, they were meant as a training tool for gymnasts, fighter pilots, and acrobats. Each of these individuals has special training and knowledge to avoid serious injury while on a trampoline. Young children, on the other hand, often use trampolines for recreation with far less supervision than should be required.
If children use trampoline parks, they should adhere to the following rules:
- Adult supervision at all times
- Avoid tricks and special maneuvers because they are more likely to cause back injuries
- Only one child on a trampoline at a time
Following these safety suggestions, even when they are not imposed by the park, can help prevent serious injuries at trampoline parks.