Latest Blogs

Exercise and fun together sound like a good combination. However, when exercise and fun are achieved by using a backyard trampoline, parents should think twice.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a policy statement in 2012 on the use of trampolines by children and teens.  AAP was concerned that although the International Trampoline Industry Association and the American Society of Testing and Materials Trampoline Subcommittee issued a revision of performance and safety standards, "... they have not substantially reduced the rate of severity of injuries."

AAP in their policy statement said that the quality of trampolines has decreased; whereas trampolines made in 1989 had a life expectancy of 10 years, those sold in 2004 only had a life expectancy of 5 years.  The warranty time also decreased.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates there were 95,000 trampoline injuries in 2012.  These injuries, and the 22 deaths over the ten-year period 2000-2009, were caused by:

• Colliding with another person on a trampoline
• Landing improperly while jumping or doing stunts on the trampoline
• Falling or jumping off of the trampoline
• Falling on the trampoline springs or frame

CPSC recommends these steps be taken to prevent "tragic deaths and serious trampoline injuries like paralysis, fractures, sprains and bruises:

• Allow only one person on the trampoline at a time.
• Do not attempt, or allow, somersaults, because landing on the head or neck can cause paralysis.
• Do not use the trampoline without shock-absorbing pads that completely cover its springs, hooks and frame.
• Place the trampoline away from structures, trees and other play areas.
• No child under 6 years of age should use a full-size trampoline.
• Do not use a ladder with the trampoline, because it provides unsupervised access by small children.
• Always supervise children who use a trampoline.
• Trampoline enclosures can help prevent injuries from falls off trampolines.

"Should you, or a family member, be injured as a result of an accident on a trampoline, our Florida Child Injuries Attorneys at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. are available for a free consultation," says Attorney Randall Spivey.

Port Charlotte Personal Injury Lawyer,  Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839,or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.