Defective Trampolines: When Fun Turns Dangerous

Trampolines are marketed as a family-friendly way to burn energy, encourage exercise, and enjoy time outdoors. But when trampolines are poorly designed or improperly manufactured, that fun can turn into a serious hazard. Defective trampolines have been linked to severe injuries in children and adults alike, leading to product recalls, lawsuits, and growing concerns about backyard safety.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a faulty trampoline, you may have legal options to recover compensation. Understanding the risks and your rights is the first step.

A Closer Look at Trampoline Defects

While no trampoline is entirely risk-free, certain defects can significantly increase the likelihood of injury. These may include:

• Weak or unstable frames that collapse or bend during use
• Poorly attached springs that snap loose or break mid-jump
• Defective welding or joints that fail under normal pressure
• Faulty netting or safety enclosures that tear or detach easily
• Insufficient padding that fails to protect users from impact
• Improper warning labels or assembly instructions

In the case of the Super Jumper trampoline recall, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported multiple injuries related to missing welds on the metal legs, causing the trampoline to break during use. Over 23,000 units were recalled, highlighting how one overlooked design or manufacturing flaw can put thousands of families at risk.

Common Injuries Caused by Defective Trampolines

Trampoline-related injuries are already common, but when a trampoline is defective, the consequences are often more severe. Reported injuries include:

• Broken bones (arms, wrists, ankles, collarbones)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Concussions and other head trauma
• Lacerations and deep cuts
• Dislocations
• Internal injuries
• Paralysis or permanent disability

Children are particularly vulnerable due to their size and lack of coordination, and a sudden equipment failure can be especially dangerous when multiple jumpers are involved.

When Product Liability Comes Into Play

In cases involving defective trampolines, individuals who have been injured may be able to file a product liability claim. This type of legal action holds manufacturers, designers, and sometimes retailers responsible for placing unsafe products in the hands of consumers.

There are typically three categories of product defects:

Design Defects

The trampoline’s structure, layout, or materials are inherently flawed, even when built correctly. This could include weak legs, poor balance, or unstable configurations that increase the likelihood of collapse.

Manufacturing Defects

These happen during production, such as missing welds, low-quality materials, or faulty components that deviate from the intended design.

Failure to Warn (Marketing Defects)

If the trampoline lacks proper instructions, warning labels, or safety guidance, the manufacturer may be liable for injuries that result from these omissions.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Depending on how and why the defect occurred, multiple parties may be responsible, including:

• Trampoline manufacturers
• Parts suppliers or manufacturers
• Retailers who sold the defective unit
• Installation providers, if improper assembly contributed to the failure

In some cases, trampoline parks or other facilities may also be held accountable if they fail to inspect or maintain equipment properly.

What to Do After a Trampoline Injury

If you suspect a defect caused your trampoline injury, taking the following steps can help protect your rights:

• Seek immediate medical attention. Even minor injuries can worsen over time or indicate a more serious underlying issue.
• Preserve the product. Do not discard or repair the trampoline. It may serve as key evidence in your case.
• Document everything. Take clear photos of the damage, the setup area, injuries, and any warning labels or lack thereof.
• Report the injury. Notify the manufacturer, retailer, or any applicable authority (such as the CPSC).
• Consult with a product liability attorney. A Morgan & Morgan product liability lawyer can help determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.

Compensation in a Defective Trampoline Case

If a trampoline defect is to blame for your injury, you may be entitled to recover damages for:

• Medical bills (including ongoing care)
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disability or long-term impairment
• Wrongful death (in fatal cases)

Compensation is meant to help restore what was lost, physically, emotionally, and financially, due to someone else’s negligence.

The Role of Safety Standards and Recalls

The CPSC monitors consumer products and issues recalls when safety risks are identified. Unfortunately, not all dangerous products are recalled promptly, and many consumers remain unaware that they’re using defective equipment until it’s too late.

Manufacturers are expected to meet basic safety standards, and when they fail to do so, they can be held accountable. This includes proper testing, quality control, and transparent communication about potential hazards.

Preventing Trampoline Injuries: What Consumers Can Do

While you can’t control how a product is manufactured, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of injury:

• Register your product so you receive recall alerts directly.
• Inspect your trampoline regularly for signs of wear, rust, or damage.
• Limit use to one jumper at a time to reduce the risk of impact injuries.
• Ensure padding and enclosures are secure and intact.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight limits and proper setup.

That said, no amount of caution can prevent a defect from causing harm. When a trampoline fails because of poor design or manufacturing, the responsibility lies with those who put it on the market.

Let’s Jumpstart Your Recovery

Injuries from defective products can change lives in an instant. The law gives you the right to seek justice when a company’s failure puts you or your family at risk.

If you’ve suffered an injury due to a defective trampoline, a Morgan & Morgan product liability attorney can help you understand your legal options. From investigating the source of the defect to building a strong claim, having the right legal support makes all the difference.

Contact us today to discover how we can assist you and advocate for fair compensation.