Trampoline parks are an increasingly popular source of entertainment and exercise for kids and adults alike. However, with the growth of these facilities comes a sharp increase in injury reports. When employees fail to properly supervise jump areas or companies ignore clear hazards, the consequences can be devastating.
If you or your child has suffered injuries at a trampoline park, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and the action you can take to recover full compensation. This quick guide from the seasoned catastrophic injury lawyers at Atnip & Associates, PLLC, offers all that information and more.
Your Rights After a Trampoline Park Accident
Michigan enacted the Trampoline Court Safety Act in 2014, which assigns a certain level of responsibility to trampoline users. The Act covers potential injuries that many people would expect, such as falls and bumping into other people.
However, the Act does not make the owner-operator of the trampoline or trampoline facility completely immune from liability. They must still take numerous steps to keep kids and adults safe. Even if you sign a liability waiver, the company is not safe from lawsuits from mistakes they make.
Many visitors assume they have no case because they signed a waiver. However, that assumption often proves incorrect. If a facility fails to maintain reasonably safe premises for visitors, a liability waiver is not necessarily enough to protect them from the consequences of their negligence.
Examples of when a park may still face liability include:
- Failing to adequately supervise jump areas
- Allowing too many people on the trampolines
- Neglecting routine inspection of equipment
- Ignoring recommended maintenance schedules
- Overlooking wet surfaces or broken padding
When the company ignores safety rules, allows damaged equipment to remain in use, or otherwise fails to keep their park safe for visitors, they may be responsible for any harm they cause.
Courts may also rule a waiver unenforceable if it lacks clear language or if the park failed to explain the risks to minors. In other words, never make assumptions about your rights after a trampoline park accident. Speak to a lawyer right away.
What To Do After a Trampoline Park Accident
Your actions in the moments and days after a trampoline park accident can make or break your personal injury claim. Be sure to do the following:
- Seek Prompt Medical Care: Do not delay treatment, even if injuries appear minor. Some injuries take time to show symptoms, and others worsen over time. Not only that, but seeing a healthcare provider creates vital documentation for your personal injury claim.
- Take Photos and Videos: Document the accident scene, capturing the condition of the trampoline, any hazards that may have caused the accident, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Witness Information: If anybody saw the accident happen, gather their names and contact information. They may offer key testimony when pursuing your claim.
- Report the Incident: Tell the park staff about the incident. Demand a written report and request a copy.
- Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurers: If insurers contact you, refer them to your attorney. If you must speak with them, never admit fault, never accept quick settlements, and avoid all recorded statements.
- Contact an Attorney: An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and help you avoid critical errors as you pursue your claim.
Compensation for Trampoline Park Accidents
Trampoline accident claims can be difficult to prove due to the Trampoline Court Safety Act. This is why it is so important to consult an experienced trampoline claim attorney who is familiar with the special laws applying to these types of claims.
A successful personal injury claim for a trampoline park accident can cover all the physical, emotional, and financial damage caused by the at-fault party’s negligence. That can include:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
A skilled attorney can work with medical and financial experts to assess the full impact of your injuries on your daily life and finances, and then fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
Contact a Michigan Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you’ve suffered injuries in a trampoline park accident, you need a skilled personal injury lawyer to protect your rights. The team at Atnip & Associates, PLLC, will fight to hold the negligent party accountable and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm today for your free consultation.
