Surviving the Big Jump in Trampoline Injuries

Jumping on trampolines is a popular summertime activity that sends hundreds of thousands of people to the hospital each year. From 2010 to 2014, the number of trampoline related injuries increased more than 1000% due in large part to the proliferation of trampoline parks across the country.

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Trampoline Injuries and Statistics

The most common trampoline related injuries are broken bones, concussions, head and neck injuries, bruises, and sprains/strains.

Many of these injuries are the result of users bumping into one another while they jump. It is estimated that up to 20% of spinal cord injuries and 75% of all injuries occur in this manner.

From 2002 to 2011, nearly 1 million people were treated in emergency rooms and hospitals for trampoline related injuries. Nearly 300,000 of these involved broken bones.

Younger children and teenagers are at greatest risk for suffering bone fractures. Nationwide, 93% of fractures occur to children under the age of 16.

Based on hospital data, one in every 200 injuries, mostly caused by falling off the trampoline, will result in permanent neurological damage.

Keeping a Watchful Eye on Trampoline Parks

There are hundreds of trampoline parks in the United States and it is estimated that six new parks open every month. In 2010, 580 children were injured on trampolines operated by trampoline parks. By 2014, that number had risen to over 7,000.

Nationwide, it is estimated that approximately 100,000 children will visit emergency rooms this year for trampoline related injuries. Of these, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 10 will receive their injuries while jumping at a trampoline park.

Liability for Trampoline Related Injuries

Responsible parties for a trampoline related injury can include:

• The trampoline manufacturer if the steel breaks, joints fail, or the fabric fails below stated weight limit specifications can provide reasons for a product liability claim.
• The owner of the trampoline if they fail to provide adequate supervision while the trampoline is in use.
• Another user if their negligent actions cause an individual to fall off the trampoline or otherwise injure themselves.
• The company that maintains it for entertainment purposes (such as a trampoline park) if they do not provide adequate supervision and safety protections including pads and safety nets.

Parents of children who have been injured on a trampoline should consult with a personal injury attorney to determine their options. Depending on the circumstances, they may be eligible to file a claim for premises liability, product liability, or negligence.