Playground Related Brain Injuries on the Rise in Tulsa

Despite improvements in playground safety and design, over 21,000 children in the United States suffered playground related brain injuries between 2001 and 2013. A new study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that traumatic brain injuries and concussions have risen significantly over the past decade for children under the age of 14 – and it’s not just because of contact sports.

While the exact cause of this increase is still unknown, many researchers are citing increased awareness about concussions as a whole as a potential factor. Monkey bars, playground gyms and swings were the pieces of equipment that were discovered to have the most connection to these types of injuries in children. The study also revealed that ⅓ of these brain injuries occurred at school or recreational sports facilities.

In 2001, the authoritative journal Ambulatory Pediatrics also established that playground slip and fall accidents are significantly higher than bicycle injuries among children aged between the age of 5 and 9. Other serious injuries that may occur in schools, public parks, or neighborhood playgrounds include bone fractures, dislocations, and serious internal injuries.

Why Playground Related Brain Injuries Happen

Now that summer is right around the corner, it’s that much more important to pay attention to the equipment your children are playing on and to be aware of any possible risks your child may face. To help you keep your family safe this summer it’s important to know the most common reasons why playground injuries occur, which are:

• Failure to Maintain Equipment: Common playground equipment may have sharp edges, slippery surfaces, or dysfunctional parts that can contribute to injuries. Be sure to fully examine any piece of equipment before letting your child play.
• Poor Design of Playgrounds: Ensure that the playground and playground equipment is age-appropriate for your child. Playgrounds that are overcrowded or too complicated may lead to accidents that can cause serious injuries. Be aware of the playground’s surroundings and don’t let your child play on equipment that they are unfamiliar with.
• Failure to Supervise Children: The National Program for Playground Safety advises parents to supervise their children during playtime to prevent injuries. Injuries can happen in a split second so be sure to pay attention and stay alert.

If the playground is poorly designed or constructed, the parties that are responsible for the park may be liable for your child’s injuries. Contact the experienced Tulsa personal injury attorneys at Wandres Law to discuss how we can help you receive compensation for mental suffering, pain, medical expenses, or wrongful death. Call us at 918-641-4044 for a free consultation.