Drowning Accidents
Drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury deaths in the United States, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Each year almost 350 children under the age of five drown and 3,600 children end up in the emergency room after nearly drowning in residential swimming pools. Most swimming pool accidents involve drowning, near-fatal submersions, diving mishaps, and falls. The best way to prevent a drowning accident is to be aware of the signs of drowning.
Drowning Statistics
- Nine people drown in the United States every day.
- For every drowning death there are 1 to 4 nonfatal near-drowning accidents serious enough to require hospitalization.
- Drowning is the second highest cause of accidental injury-related death for children ages 1 to 14.
- Drowning is the leading cause of accidental injury-related death for children ages 1 to 4.
- Male children drown at twice the rate of female children in swimming pools although female children have twice the rate of drowning in bathtubs.
- Most drownings among children aged 1 to 4 occur in residential swimming pools.
- Drownings can be reduced by 50 to 90 percent with the implementation of a locked four-sided fence that isolates the pool from the house and yard.
- 11 percent of all pool drownings for children under age 5 occur in portable pools.
- 19 percent of child drowning fatalities happen in a public pool with certified lifeguards on duty.
- About 5,000 children 14 and under are admitted to the hospital each year due to accidental drowning-related incidents; 15 percent die and about 20 percent suffer from permanent neurological disability.
- Seventy-seven percent of children who suffer a home-drowning accident had only been missing for five minutes or less when found in the swimming pool and 70 percent weren’t expected to be in or near the pool at the time of the incident.
- In nearly 9 out of 10 child-drowning deaths, a parent or caregiver say they were watching the child.*
- When children learn to swim in formal swimming lessons, the risk of drowning can be reduced by 88 percent among children ages 1 to 4.
*Know the Signs of Drowning
- A drowning child often slips silently beneath the surface; there is often no cry for help, waving arms, wild splashing, or gasping for air.
- Once underwater, a person may not come back to the surface; you often won’t see any bobbing up and down.
- A drowning child can “disappear” underwater; a disturbed water surface, glare, and reflection can all cause submerged bodies to become invisible.
To ensure everyone’s safety, lifeguards should frequently leave the lifeguard stand to see the bottom of the pool. Close supervision by sober adults and life vests for children under the age of 4 are key to swimming safety in private pools.
Pool safety is a serious responsibility. Nonfatal drownings can result in brain damage that may result in long-term disabilities including memory problems, learning disabilities, and permanent loss of basic functioning. While lack of swimming ability is a leading cause of drowning, so is negligence by pool owners. Factors like the lack of pool fencing, the absence of close supervision, and the availability of alcohol are frequent causes of drownings.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreWhen should I Replace Car Seats after a Car Accident?!
Car accidents happen every day and often there is a child in the vehicle strapped into a car seat or booster. Even if your car seat appears intact after an accident, the force of the collision can cause unseen damage and may keep the car seat from properly protecting the child in future car accidents. There are no state or federal laws in place saying that car seats must be replaced after a car accident so parents must use their discretion. Your car seat manufacturer should have instructions in the user manual about what to do after a car accident. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends replacing car seats that have been in a moderate or severe car crash. According to the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA), a minor car crash may not cause enough damage to warrant a car seat replacement.
If you can say “yes” to all five of these questions, the NHTSA says it’s okay to keep using your car seat but if you are unsure, call the car seat manufacturer.
- Could you drive the car away from the accident?
- Was the door nearest the car seat undamaged?
- Were all occupants of the vehicle uninjured?
- Did the air bags remain un-deployed?
- Is there no visible damage to the car seat?
The NHTSA changed its policy on replacing seats after minor accidents because scientific studies were revealing that car seats continue to meet federal standards for performance and they wanted to ease the financial burden of replacing a seat that may be perfectly good. There was also some concern that some parents would toss the seat but then put the child in the car without a safety seat before they were ready.
Note that it is not a good idea to purchase a used car seat unless it is from a trusted friend or family member; it is impossible to know whether a seat has been in a car accident.
Car Accident Statistics
- In 2004, 495 children under the age of 5 were killed in car accidents. Among these fatalities, approximately 173 (35 percent) of these children were totally unrestrained.
- An estimated 451 children’s lives were saved in 2004 because they were strapped into a child restraint system.
- Child safety seats can reduce fatal injury by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers, ages 1 to 4.
Car Seat Installation Safety Tips
- Ensure that you purchase the right car seat for your child’s weight and height.
- Ensure that the seat is properly installed-have it checked by a car seat officer.
- Never place an infant car seat next to an airbag.
- Always use the chair’s five-point harness system and ensure that the cross snap goes across the upper chest.
- Never use a broken or defective car seat.
Note: If you decide that a car seat should be replaced, you may be able to get your insurance company to cover the cost. You may need to send them a photocopy of the car seat instruction booklet that shows the recommendation to replace the seat after a car accident.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreSIDS Rate Stagnates
The term SIDS sends shudders down the spines of most new parents and for many years, experts did not know what was causing SIDS or how to prevent it. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the name given to when a baby dies unexpectedly in his sleep. In 2010, 2,000 babies died of SIDS, according US government statistics. Today it is known that most babies who die of SIDS were actually in an unsafe sleep environment. Unsafe sleeping practices include a baby with his head facing down, the head covered by a blanket or pillow, or the head getting wedged between sofa cushions. In some cases, a co-sleeping parent rolls on top of the infant in the night. These scenarios are signs of accidental suffocation, not a mysterious death such as SIDS. Some in the medical community are questioning whether SIDS is really the right term to use anymore but believe it is still useful because of its recognition.
SIDS Risk Factors
SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants between one month and 12 months of age, although SIDS is most prevalent up until four months of age.
Approximately one in five infant SIDS deaths occur while the infant is being cared for by a non-parent. Many of the deaths happen when a baby who is used to sleeping on his back is placed on his tummy instead. Babies who are used to sleeping on their backs and are placed to sleep on their tummies are 18 times more likely to die from SIDS. Parents should make sleeping practices very clear to caregivers before leaving them in their care.
Infant Sleep Recommendations from The American Academy of Pediatrics
Safe Sleep Practices
- Always place your baby to sleep on his back.
- Don’t cover your baby’s head in a blanket or over bundle him in clothing or blankets.
- Check to make sure your baby isn’t getting too hot. Signs that your baby is overheated include sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, and rapid breathing. Dress the baby lightly for sleep and set the room temperature at a comfortable temperature.
Safe Sleep Environment
- Your baby should sleep in a safety-approved crib, cradle or bassinet with a firm mattress and well fitting sheets.
- Don’t place babies to sleep on adult beds, chairs, sofas, waterbeds, or cushions.
- Avoid placing toys, stuffed animals or soft bedding including fluffy blankets, comforters, and pillows inside your baby’s sleeping space. These items can impair your infant from breathing if they end up covering their face.
- Your baby should sleep in your room for at least the first three months but preferably up to one year. Place the crib, cradle or bassinet within arm’s reach so you can easily breast-feed and comfort your baby.
- Do not smoke inside your home.
The “Back to Sleep” Campaign
The “Back to Sleep” public health campaign was launched in 1992 after public health officials became alarmed at the number of infants dying in their cribs. The campaign has proven very successful and as back-sleeping rates have soared, the SIDS rate has dropped. By 2000, the SIDS rate had fallen 50 percent. Since 2000, however, progress has stalled and about one quarter of American parents say that they do not put their babies to sleep on their backs.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreBaby Walker Accidents
Despite their popularity among parents, an estimated 8,800 infants are treated in hospital emergency departments in the United States for injuries associated with baby walkers every year. Since 1973, thirty-four infants have died in walker-related accidents. Common injuries associated with baby walkers are falls down stairs and head injuries. Ironically, walkers not only do not help a child learn to walk; they can actually delay normal motor and mental development. Warning labels, public education, adult supervision during walker use, and stair gates have not been effective in reducing injuries associated with baby walkers. As of June 30, 1997, a voluntary safety measure was enacted requesting that all walkers be wider than a 36-in doorway or have a braking mechanism designed to stop the walker if one or more wheels drop off the floor, like at the top of a stairway.
What are Baby Walkers?
A baby walker, or infant walker, is made of a wheeled base that supports a rigid frame. The frame holds a fabric seat with leg openings and usually a plastic tray. Walkers are designed to support a pre-ambulatory infant, whose feet can rest on the floor and push while they are learning to walk. Some walkers come with bouncing mechanisms, activity toys, or locking devices that keep them from moving, and some fold flat for storage.
It is estimated that 3 million baby walkers are sold in the United States annually and that between 55 percent and 92 percent of infants use a baby walker. Parents say that they use walkers to keep their child entertained, encourage walking, provide exercise, and to hold the baby during feedings. One third of parents actually said that they use a walker to keep their baby safe.
Baby Walker Injury Data
- Approximately 8,800 children under the age of 15 months were treated in hospital emergency departments in 1999 for baby walker injuries.
- That was actually a 56 percent decrease in baby walker injuries since 1995 when 20, 100 injuries were reported.
- Thirty-four deaths associated with baby walkers were reported between the years 1973 and 1998.
- Population surveys indicate that there may be as many as 10 times more injuries as reported but that are minor enough that they are treated at home or in a doctor’s office.
- Parents report that 12 percent to 40 percent of infants who use walkers obtain an injury at some time from their use.
Recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics
1. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a ban on the manufacture and sale of mobile infant walkers because of the considerable risk of major and minor injury and even death from their use.
2. Parents should be vigilant about using walkers that meet the safety recommendations set in place in 1997.
3. Efforts should be made by government, media campaigns, and physicians to educate parents about the hazards and lack of benefits of walkers. The particular risk of walkers in homes with stairs should be emphasized.
4. Even if walkers are banned at some point, community programs should be developed to encourage proper disposal of walkers so that they can be destroyed and recycled.
5. Licensing Agencies should not permit the use of walkers in approved child care centers and homes. Hospitals should not permit the use of walkers in their facilities.
6. Stationary activity centers should be promoted as a safer alternative to mobile walkers.
7. The CPSC should closely monitor the compliance of infant walker manufacturers with the voluntary standard ASTM F977-96 to ensure that non-complying walkers do not continue to be manufactured and sold.
8. The CPSC should collect surveillance data on children injured while using walkers that are in compliance with ASTM F977-96.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreWelding Accidents
Welding is a skilled trade that involves the use of many tools including blow torches. Most construction workers use welding as a sub-skill to their main trade, such as a sheet metal worker who welds metal edges or a plumber who welds pipes. Because of its inherent danger, it is vital that each person receives thorough training; even a skilled welder risks injury every time they work. Over 1 in 250 construction workers will experience a fatal injury from welding over a working lifetime and many more will incur non-fatal injuries. A welding accident is often deemed a workplace accident and could qualify for a worker’s compensation claim. Seek the advice of an experienced work place injury attorney to determine if you have a case for damages.
Welding Defined
Welding is an action where two pieces of metal are joined together by the use of heat; the heat melts and liquefies the metal (called coalescence) so they can be joined together. In order to melt part of a large piece of metal, you need to apply a large amount of either pressure or heat to it.
Common Welding Accidents
Burns – Burns are the most common welding accident. Welding burns have the propensity to be very serious because of the extreme heat and pressure required to weld metal together. Burns require immediate attention in the Emergency Room.
Arc-Eye – Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) is caused by the electric arc created through the act of welding. UV can cause burns to the skin and damage to the eyes. Damage to the lens of the eye can lead to “arc-eye,” which is an uncomfortable and often untreatable condition that makes it feel like there is sand in the eye.
Thermal Burns – Exposure to infrared radiation (IR) happens from the electric arc produced during welding and other metalworking equipment. IR can heat the surface of the skin and the tissue just below the skin, causing painful and scarring thermal burns.
Retinal damage – Exposure to intense visible light from welding can cause retinal damage, among other optical injuries.
Welding Accident Prevention
Welding accidents are best prevented by ensuring thorough training is received and that all recommended safety equipment is used:
- Eye protection
- Full face shield
- Thick gloves
- Keep the torch pointed away from you at all times
- While welding, keep the torch angled so that there are as few errant emissions from the torch as possible
- Make sure your employer has all of the safety equipment needed for welding and that it is all working/up to code. If it is not, report it to your employer as soon as possible and do not do any welding until the problem is resolved.
What do I do if I have a welding accident?
If you have a welding accident, you should seek appropriate medical treatment immediately. Next, take pictures of the injury and accident site if/when you are able. Keep track of all your medical bills.
If you suspect that the welding accident might have been the result of negligence on the part of your employer, call a workplace injury lawyer for an assessment of your case.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreGymnastics Accidents Cause 86,000 Injuries Annually
Every year in the United States, 86,000 injuries caused by gymnastics accidents are treated in emergency rooms and doctor’s offices. Gymnastics is a rigorous sport and the risk of injury only increases with the child’s age and complexity of the routines. Although gymnastics-related injuries are not often severe, they should be seen by a medical professional to try and prevent chronic pain or muscle weakness that could lead to further injury.
Common Gymnastics Injuries
In gymnastics exercises, the upper body is used as a weight-bearing joint which causes many injuries to the shoulder, elbow, and wrist:
Superior Labrum, Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Lesions in the Shoulder
Labral tears (also called SLAP tears) most commonly occur during ring exercises. These tears are characterized by pain that seems to clear up but tends to recur when the activity is resumed. An MRI is sometimes used to establish a definitive diagnosis.
Elbow Dislocation
A dislocated elbow occurs when the bones that form the elbow joint are displaced from their normal position. Dislocated elbows are typically caused when a gymnast breaks their fall with an extended straight arm. Dislocated elbows require immediate medical attention.
Wrist Sprains
The wrist takes on a big load in gymnastics; often subjected to forces that can exceed twice the body weight. After a wrist injury, athletes should cut back on training hours and intensity and avoid activities that hurt the wrist over a six-week recovery period. A brace may be worn during this time to help immobilize the wrist.
When gymnastics injuries happen to the lower body they are usually a result from a landing or dismount and involve the knee and ankle:
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
ACL injuries are caused when a gymnast lands “short” or is over-rotated while tumbling, dismounting, or vaulting. Sometimes a “pop” is heard or felt followed by a swollen knee. An MRI is often performed to confirm an ACL injury. ACL reconstruction is often recommended for gymnasts who wish to return to full form.
Achilles Tendon Injury
Gymnasts land and jump repeatedly and thus can suffer from a variety of injuries to the Achilles tendon located just above the back of the heel. Achilles tendinitis causes sore calf muscles and treatment often includes an initial ultrasound, stretching, activity modification, and calf exercises. In severe cases, foot immobilization may be recommended for seven to ten days.
Lower Back Injuries
Low back pain and injuries are caused by muscle strain, ligament sprain, fracture, and/or disc disorders. Low-back pain can worsen with activity, especially with extension movements, such as arching the shoulders backwards. Gymnasts often recover well with rest and physical therapy exercises. An MRI or a bone scan are often helpful to rule out more significant injuries.
Foot and Ankle Injuries
Injuries to the foot and ankle are common in gymnastics but with varying degrees of severity. Signs of a serious foot injury include swelling, bruising and tenderness directly over the bones. Minor foot injuries will typically have tenderness limited to one side of the joint and lack significant swelling. Serious injuries should be seen by a medical professional and may require significant rest before returning to the sport while minor injuries may be resolved in a week. Protecting the ankle with tape or a brace can help speed recovery and reduce the risk for re-injury.
Gymnastics Safety Tips
Along with the following safety tips, proper training techniques and the consistent use of safety equipment can help to prevent gymnastics related injuries:
- Always wear safety gear while training or competing including items such as wrist guards, hand grips, footwear, ankle or elbow braces, and pads.
- If you are injured or you are in pain be sure to see your doctor and follow instructions for treatment.
- A first aid kit should be accessible during all competitions and practices.
- Equipment should be inspected for safety before using it for training including an assessment of its condition, padding on the floors, secured mats under every apparatus, and safety harnesses for learning difficult moves.
- A spotter should always be in place while learning new skills.
- Before jumping into training, warm up muscles with light aerobic exercise such as jumping jacks or running in place.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreRecreational Fishing Safety Tips
Recreational fishing is a hugely popular sport and means of sustenance for millions of people around the world. There are, however, many things that can go wrong while fishing such as boat engine failure, a fall on the boat deck, boat collision, an accident with a hook, etc. There are many types of fishing, people, and boating situations that can lead to accidents on the water including sport anglers on charter boats, whale watchers, ferry passengers, and harbor tour passengers. Each year hundreds of people die, thousands are injured, and millions of dollars of property damage is incurred because of preventable recreational boating and fishing accidents.
Fishing Safety Tips
1. If you’re on a boat to fish you should be wearing a life jacket. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of over 80 percent of boating fatality victims.
2. Inspect waterfronts each day that you go out to fish as the water environment changes daily.
3. Follow the rules and don’t fish in areas where it is not permitted. You must trust that these areas have been declared “off limits” to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety.
4. Consider safety factors when choosing a location to fish.
5. Weather changes frequently and is always a factor in safe boating. Set up a weather committee or person in charge of weather forecasting responsibilities.
6. Just like when packing for a hike, bring along extra safety items such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone or GPS radio.
7. Stay dry, warm and protected from the sun, wind, and rain. Wear a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply every two hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear thin layers of clothing that start light for warm weather, cover up with warm clothes for cold weather and water/wind resistant gear for the final layer. Wear shoes that will keep your feet warm and dry and with good soles to stop a slip on the deck. Wear a hat for sun and rain protection.
8. Bring along insect repellent.
9. Sharpen fishing knives at the start of each season and keep blades covered when not in use.
10. Handle fish carefully, particularly when cleaning with a knife.
11. Use safety glasses when casting.
12. Use caution when baiting and removing hooks.
13. Perform a vessel safety check at the start of each season or go to one of the free safety checks provided around your community.
14. Operator errors account for 70 percent of boating accidents. Take a boating safety course before operating a boat for the first time and every five years to stay fresh on your safety skills.
15. Educate yourself about the potentially lethal boating danger of Carbon Monoxide.
16. Boating under the Influence is a serious offense that can lead to hefty fines and jail time. Alcohol is a factor in one third of all boating accidents.
17. Create a float plan in case of emergency.
Liability for Fishing Accidents
People injured on recreational fishing boat are not seamen covered under the Jones Act but federal maritime law and admiralty jurisdiction could still be a factor in resolving liability in a fishing accident. The plaintiff is usually looking to establish negligence on the part of the owner or operator of the vessel. Winning damages from a lawsuit involving recreational fishing or boating can be very complicated; it often involves conflicts between state and federal law. Your best chance to win damages from your case is to hire an experienced maritime personal injury lawyer like the ones at Tario & Associates, P.S.
Note: Federal Law requires boating operators to file a boating accident report with the State reporting authority.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreTop 4 Farm Accidents
Some may idealize the beauty of working the land to harvest food and grain without acknowledging the inherent risk for farm accidents. Compared to the simple tools used thousands of years ago, today’s farmers must contend with modern machinery and chemicals. Farming accidents are a real factor to consider when becoming a farmer or looking for farming work. Read on for a discussion of farm accident statistics and farm safety tips.
Farm Accident Statistics
Fatalities
- In 2012 alone there were 374 farming related deaths; resulting in a very high fatality rate of 20.2 deaths per 100,000 workers. Tractor overturns were the leading cause of death for these farmers and farm workers with about 270 per year.
- On average, 113 youth under the age of 20 die every year from farm-related injuries (taken from statistics between 1995 and 2002), with 34 percent of these deaths occurring to youth between 16 and 19 years of age.
- 23 percent of all deaths among youth involved machinery (including tractors).
Injuries
- Agricultural workers suffer work-place injuries at a high rate compared to other types of work. Every day, about 167 agricultural workers suffer an injury that requires time off from work to recover; five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment.
- In 2012, approximately 14,000 youth were injured on farms; 2,700 of these injuries were as a result of farm work.
Top 4 Farm Accidents
- Tractor accidents are by far the most common and deadly farming accidents; tractor related deaths account for anywhere between 250 and 300 deaths per year. The most common cause for serious injury involving a tractor is the rollover. Technology does exist for rollover protective structures and high quality seat belts but many tractors do not come with that equipment.
- With the amount of grain, fruit, hay, and other commodities that get moved around a farm, sometimes worker become entrapped under a load of product in a silo, barn, or other similar structure.
- Many farmers use heavy doses of chemicals to care for their livestock, enhance soil, and treat produce. There is potential for farm workers to become exposed and sick from these chemicals which can lead to both short and long term negative health effects.
- Injuries occur from direct contact with farm animals including trampling, sickness, etc.
Tips on Preventing Farm Accidents
The OSHA fact sheet offers insight into the lead causes of farming accidents and how to prevent them: Common accident factors include: Roll-over protective structures for tractors, emergency preparedness, age of workers, and protective equipment for farming machinery.
The most effective way to prevent tractor overturn deaths by tractors is the use of a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS). In 2012, just 59 percent of tractors used on farms in the U.S. were equipped with ROPS. It is believed that survival rate of overturn when in a properly protected tractor improves from a frightening 38 percent up to 99 percent. These numbers show that it is irresponsible not to provide these safety elements on all tractor models.
Farmers should embrace emergency preparedness as a way to prevent or best handle accidents. It is important to consider that farms are often in rural areas with a long drive to a hospital. In order to prepare for possible accidents, farmers should take inventory of all hazardous material and equipment on the premises and supply the proper measures to deal with injury. For example, a physical injury will require first aid; a chemical burn can require poison prevention, etc.
People under the age of 15 and over the age of 65 are most likely to be injured in general and that applies on the farm as well. Farm owners should accommodate those people most at risk and make sure they have the proper safety equipment, training and, if applicable, supervision to avoid an accident.
Protective equipment on farm machines is critical for safety. Farming equipment is usually large and capable of chopping, shredding, gathering, and more. Seat belts and other protective measures are rarely required by law so shortcuts are often taken despite the lives and injuries that could be saved if they were used.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreTrampoline Accidents
Despite their popularity, pediatricians and safety experts warn that home trampolines are “intrinsically dangerous” and should be strongly discouraged. Children love to jump on trampolines and parents love that they help their kids burn energy and keep them busy but the risks seem to strongly outweigh the benefits. While trampoline parks are growing in popularity, sales of home trampolines peaked several years ago. A 2007 study conducted by researchers at Brown Medical School reported that despite a decline in sales, trampoline injuries this decade have doubled compared to last decade. They found that over half a million kids were treated in emergency rooms for home trampoline-related injuries between 2000 and 2005.
Parents may believe that they are making their trampoline safe by adding safety features like complete netting enclosures and padding over the springs but according to pediatricians they don’t actually significantly decrease the risk of injury. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, The Canadian Pediatric Society, and the Canadian Academy of Sports Medicine have all issued similar statements discouraging recreational and playground use of trampolines, citing safety concerns. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ statement on trampoline safety published in the journal Pediatrics does acknowledge that trampolines “…have an acceptable role when used as part of a structured athletic training program with appropriate coaching, supervision, and safety measures in place.”
Trampoline Accident Statistics
The National Electronic Injury Surveillance report for 2009 estimates that there were 98,000 trampoline-related injuries that year; the injuries resulted in 3,100 hospitalizations. Those numbers are down from 3,300 hospitalizations and 112,000 injuries in 2004.
About 75 percent of trampoline injuries occur when more than one person is jumping on the trampoline.
Kids five and under are usually at greater risk for significant injury in a trampoline accident. Many of these accidents happen under adult supervision.
Although fractures and dislocations make up 48 percent of all trampoline injuries, other common injuries include sprains, strains, and contusions.
Falls from a trampoline caused 27 percent to 39 percent of all injuries; falls can be catastrophic, resulting in head and neck injuries.
Head and neck injuries account for 10 percent to 17 percent of all trampoline accidents.
Common Trampoline Injuries
- Broken arms and legs
- Concussions
- Lacerations
- Abdominal injuries
Trampoline Safety Tips
- One jumper at a time
- No somersaults
- Adult supervision
Many parents simply do not understand the risks associated with jumping on a trampoline nor the liability that comes with allowing other children to jump on your trampoline. Many home insurance policies exclude coverage for trampoline injuries or mandate that they are within enclosed areas with restricted access.
In their defense, trampoline makers say the pediatricians’ statement is based on old data from before safety nets were common and fails to acknowledge the valuable health benefits associated with trampoline use. Today about 85 percent of the approximately 900,000 home trampolines sold are purchased with a safety net. Jumping on a trampoline is a great way to get exercise, which is sorely lacking for too many children in the last decade.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
Read MoreAmusement Park Accidents
Summer has long been associated with hot, dusty days spent riding the rides at amusement parks. Children relish the thrill of the roller coaster and the tilt-a-whirl while parents have memories of getting sick on the rides as youngsters. Whether it is a travelling amusement park or a year-round themed park, amusement park accidents are a real threat to the fun. Some rides have caused very serious or life-altering injuries and many times ride operators are unskilled summer workers who are not adequately trained or paid.
Amusement Park Accident Statistics
According to the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were approximately 8,800 people who sought treatment for amusement park injuries in emergency rooms in 2006. It is estimated that 4,400 children are hurt each year on amusement park rides, but only 1.5 percent of those injuries are serious enough to require hospitalization. Between 1990 and 2000, approximately 93,000 children under the age of 18 were treated in emergency rooms for injuries incurred at amusement parks or traveling carnivals.
Children account for about 50 percent of all amusement park injuries, with kids between ten and 14 years old sustaining the most injuries of any age group with 17.9 percent of all reported injuries. Children are also the victims in three quarters of those accidents that involve a rider falling or forcefully ejected from an amusement park ride. Between 1987 and 2000, 51 people were killed on amusement park rides; roller coasters accounted for 16 deaths and whirling rides for 11 deaths.
Amusement Park Ride Injuries
Catastrophic amusement park ride injuries include:
- traumatic brain injuries
- neck or spine injuries
- broken bones
- internal injuries
- crush injuries
- amputations
- electrocution
- whiplash
- brain hemorrhages
- paraplegia/quadriplegia
- death
Causes of Amusement Park Accidents
A great personal Injury attorney will understand and evaluate every possible cause of an injury. Common causes of amusement park accidents include everything from operator error, mechanical or design flaw or failure, design defects or limitations, loose, worn, or rusty cables, nuts or bolts, faulty or inadequate safety features, improper height or weight calculations or restrictions, and exposed electrical wires. Environmental factors such as proximity to salt water and high temperatures must also be taken into consideration when evaluating damage to rides that could have caused the accident.
Liability for Damages
In an amusement park accident, you are likely looking at a combination of product liability, negligence, and premises liability law. If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury in an amusement park ride accident or carnival accident you should seek the help of an experienced amusement park accident attorney who will investigate the cause of the accident and fight for damages on your behalf.
Like many businesses, most amusement parks and carnival operators will not settle a claim unless they are sued. Never agree to settle a claim without the help of an accident lawyer who will help you settle in your favor.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you have enough to deal with. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is two to three times bigger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring accident attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. today for a FREE consultation! You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
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