12 April 2021
 Categories: Law, Blog

Getting outside in the fresh air and playing is good for children, and most parents encourage their kids to disengage from their devices and go play outdoors. When it's time to evaluate a daycare, one with a nice outdoor play area may appear to be far more attractive than the next one. Read on and find out more about what to do if your child is hurt on daycare playground equipment.

Playground Injuries Occur Frequently

You might be surprised at how often children get hurt while playing on playground equipment, and most of the injuries don't happen in the backyard — they happen at schools and daycare facilities. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that about 200,000 kids are hurt on playground equipment every year. While many of the injuries are minor, some are far more serious. Those injuries are usually associated with falls from high places, impacts from unforgiving surfaces, and cuts from sharp equipment.

Failures of the Daycare Center

Almost all incidences of injuries are directly related to either poorly maintained equipment or a failure by the daycare center to adequately supervise the children as they play. Make no mistake about it — the daycare center is legally responsible for all injuries that occur under their watch, regardless of who caused the injury. For example, the child that pushes another child is not responsible for the child's injury — nor are the parents. The daycare center must supervise children and ensure that the equipment is appropriate for the age group using it.

Taking Action on Your Child's Behalf

As the parent of an injured child, you can seek money damages on their behalf. If your child was hurt using playground equipment at a daycare, a neighbor's house, a city park, or other places, you can seek money damages due to failure to supervise or negligence. Take the following actions right away to ensure you and your child are compensated:

1. Seek medical attention. Take your child to the doctor or emergency room right away. Keep all paperwork associated with the injury. You can be paid for all medical expenses associated with the injury.
2. Gather evidence by photographing the equipment and the pertinent dangerous areas. Find out who was on duty that day (or who was supposed to be watching the children).
3. Speak to an attorney. A personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case and take action for you. Speak to a lawyer today.

If you think you have a case, contact a law group, such as Grall Law Group.