Injuries and fatalities caused by tip-over incidents, especially in children, have significantly risen in the United States. Many of these accidents are easily avoidable as anti-tip-over kits are affordable, and the installation process is equally easy.
Statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have shown that approximately 22,500 tip-over accidents occurred between 2018 and 2020. Children’s injuries accounted for 44 percent of the total injuries. On the same note, 81 percent of tips-over deaths were experienced in children under 18.
Most of these accidents resulted from televisions and furniture. Notably, head injuries from falling objects during the accidents caused the most deaths among casualties. Other injuries sustained include fractures, abrasions, contusions, and lacerations.
In situations like these, it might be a good idea to speak to an experienced lawyer like Nicholas Stamatis of Price Benowitz Accident Injury Lawyers, LLP. In this article, we will discuss what tip-over accidents are, their occurrences across the US, strategies for prevention, and legal recourses for victims, among others.
What Are Tip-Over Accidents?
Tip-over accidents refer to incidents when objects, often furniture, tip over and fall on top of a person. They often occur when someone exerts force by climbing or knocking over furniture. Objects like bookshelves, cabinets, and stands are the most common causes of these accidents.
Tip-Over Accidents in the US
Bigger television sets are becoming more appealing in the US, with Americans purchasing close to 45 million televisions last year. Parents are unaware of the danger that comes with buying these items; therefore, they take little action to ensure that their kids are safe from any potential danger. Many parents and caregivers are oblivious to the hazards that un-anchored objects pose to children. Naturally, children will climb objects to acquire anything out of reach. Children are known to pull out drawers or swing on hanging cords for amusement, an action that endangers them.
Accidents occur quickly, and contrary to popular belief held by many parents, they can happen even when children are under supervision. The CSPC advises guardians to take advantage of anchoring kits that are affordable and very quick to fix.
How to Prevent Tip-Over Accidents
Below are some guidelines provided by the CPSC to ensure a safe and secure home:
- Firmly anchor television sets and furniture to a wall
- Place television sets on low and strong TV stands and push them close to the wall if they cannot be mounted
- Store items like toys and remotes in easily accessible locations
- Warn children against climbing mounted objects and always make sure a responsible adult supervises children
- Avoid storing bulky objects in high places; instead, store them on low shelves or drawers
- Fix hanging cables on the wall out of the reach of children
Furniture Stability and Manufacturing Standards
However, even with all these measures in place, children may still be injured by hazardous furniture designs from manufacturers. As such, it is no surprise that furniture suppliers have had to recall some of their products from consumers in such cases. For example, the manufacturers of Ikea dressers were sued after causing the death of a two-year-old infant when a dresser fell over him. As a result, the CPSC has advised the need for more robust manufacturing standards to produce safe products. Consumers have the right to file lawsuits against a manufacturer or supplier if products have unsafe designs.
Legal Recourse For Victims of Tip-Over Accidents
Despite how trivial they might seem, injuries from tip-over accidents can also be severe, especially when children are involved. Overall, it is the role of manufacturers, parents, and guardians to prioritize children’s safety, but it is imperative for brands to comply with the prescribed manufacturing standards to minimize the chances of instability leading to such accidents. However, the procedure of navigating the manufacturer’s liability in such accidents can be complicated. This is where an experienced lawyer can help, providing guidance with filing claims or representing the client in court, if needed.
Significance of Legal Assistance
Consulting with an experienced legal attorney can offer several avenues for victims of such accidents, especially if the product had a defect and all possible safety measures had already been taken. Licensed attorneys are well-versed in the legal procedures and manufacturing standards, as well as the complexities of navigating insurance claims.
By gathering evidence, testimonies, and information about the specific circumstances of the accident, they can fight for their client’s right to safety and seek adequate compensation for any damages suffered. This plays a huge role in ensuring the victim can focus on recovery without having to deal with the logistical aftermatch of the accident.
Source: Price Benowitz Accident Injury Lawyers, LLP.
