Backyard activities like jumping on the trampoline, playing on swing sets, and swimming can be a lot of fun. However, injuries can happen. Who is responsible when someone gets hurt on a backyard feature?
Keep reading to learn about common backyard injuries, liability concerns, and what homeowners can do to protect themselves from legal claims.
Common Backyard Injuries
Backyard injuries often occur around trampolines, swimming pools, and swing sets. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Falling off the trampoline due to lack of safety nets or padding can lead to serious injuries, as can collisions between multiple people jumping on the trampoline. Failed flips and awkward landings can cause broken bones, concussions, and spinal injuries.
The dangers of swimming pools have been widely documented. There’s a risk of drowning or near-drowning, especially among children. Slips and falls on wet pool decks are common. Diving accidents can cause head, neck, or spinal injuries.
Unstable or improperly installed swing sets can cause falls. Rusty or broken swings, slides, and ladders can cause cuts, bruises, or fractures.
Uneven walkways, poorly maintained decks, and slippery surfaces can also cause slip and fall incidents in the backyard.
Who is Liable for Backyard Injuries?
Homeowners are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for guests. If hazards like a broken trampoline or unsecured pool exist, they could be held liable for injuries. Homeowners may be liable for injuries if a child trespasses and gets injured due to an appealing but dangerous object, such as a pool.
Parents must supervise their children when using backyard equipment. Liability may shift away from the homeowner if a child gets hurt due to lack of supervision.
In some cases, the product manufacturer may be liable for backyard injuries. If an injury occurs due to a defective trampoline, swing set, or pool ladder, it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Steps Homeowners Can Take to Limit Liability
There are several steps homeowners can take to limit their liability for backyard injuries.
- Install Safety Features: Use trampoline enclosures, pool fences, and soft landing surfaces for play equipment.
- Regular Inspections: Check play equipment for loose bolts, rust, and general wear. Look for uneven walkways, slippery surfaces, and other potential hazards.
- Supervise Activities: Always monitor children and make sure they’re using backyard equipment properly.
- Post Warning Signs: These are especially helpful near pools or high-risk areas.
- Get Homeowner’s Insurance: Make sure the policy covers backyard injury claims.
What to Do if You’re Injured on Someone Else’s Property
If you experience an injury on someone’s property, get medical attention. Document the scene by taking photos of the backyard hazard. Report the incident to the homeowner and find out if they have liability insurance. Get witness statements from others who saw the incident. Consult a personal injury attorney to determine if you have a legal claim.
Backyard Injuries
Trampoline injuries, pool accidents, and other backyard injuries can lead to serious legal disputes. Homeowners should take steps to eliminate hazards and reduce liability, while injured guests should know their legal rights. If you or a love one has been injured due to negligence, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your options for compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
