It is reported that every year more than 200,000 children under the age of 15 are injured while using playground equipment. There have been efforts over the years to make playground equipment safer. However there are still many common dangers that playgrounds pose. Parents can begin this effort in safety by arming themselves with knowledge about playground injuries and under what circumstances they are the most common.

Age Range

Children of any age are exposed to the risk of injury while using playground equipment, but there is one age range that accounts for most of the injuries that occur.

• 2-9 Years Old – This is the age group that where a lot of injuries happen since children are so little and weak. An examination can reveal child injuries even if none are reported, as children may fear they will be in trouble or no longer able to use the playground equipment if they report an injury.
• 6 Years and Younger – Children under six years of age don’t have the same muscle development or motor control skills of older children, and this means much of the playground equipment such as monkey bars can easily become a hazard.

Types of Playground Injuries

The running, jumping, and twisting that all take place on playground equipment means there are an unlimited number of potential injuries that could occur. The most common injuries include:

1. Severe Fractures – Fractures often occur when because children are elevated high above the ground and expected to maintain their coordination during this time. Since a child’s bones may not be fully developed yet there is a greater risk of a fracture occurring.
2. Concussions – Height or loss of coordination is also a key aspect when concussions occur. If a child hits their head hard enough against any surface there is a chance that their brain may impact with the side of their skull and cause a concussion.
3. Internal Injuries – These types of injuries are often the most scariest for parents because there is often no way for parents to know they’ve occurred until the child complains of pain or another unrelated symptom.
4. Amputations – Playground equipment often has many gaps and moving parts that pose a serious risk to children whose arms or legs get caught in these areas. This equipment could easily cause a child’s arm or leg to get caught and severed.

Hire a Child Injury Attorney

Child injuries are very emotionally tough on loving parents. One of the best ways to alleviate the pain is to hire a personal injury attorney to fight for you. Get your free case evaluation today by calling 713.766.5400.

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