Trampolines Recalled Over Structural Problems

Trampoline accidents and injuries can be catastrophic due to the impact and damage to the spinal cords and heads of victims young and old. The issues of adequate spotters, padding and instruction are usually at the forefront of any investigation into a trampoline accident. However, when the trampoline itself is defective, catastrophic injury can result regardless of the number of spotters, pads and training sessions. Herndon Virginia sports injury lawyer Doug Landau of Abrams Landau, Ltd. examined the dangers of such equipment over 25 years ago in his article for the Practicing Law Institute, “…With the Greatest of Ease – Gymnastic Products Liability” (Sports & Recreational Equipment, 1983). One of the reasons Abrams Landau supports the distribution of free bicycle helmets for children is to put safe, non-defective sports equipment in play so no one gets hurt.

A California sporting goods company has recently announced a recall 160,000 sporting trampolines over the risk of the structures breaking. Bravo Sports announced the recall in conjunction with the Consumer Product Safety Commission last week, saying “the trampolines, if improperly assembled, can result in weak support, posing the risk of the top rails or legs bending or breaking during normal use.” The trampolines were imported from China by Bravo Sports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., and sold nationwide from January 2007 through September 2010 for between $200 and $400. According to the news report, the company has received 247 reports of problems with the trampoline railings.

The trampolines, if improperly assembled, can result in weak support, posing the risk of the top rails or legs bending or breaking during normal use. The firm has received 247 reports of problems with the top rail, the commission said in a statement. The recall involves AirZone and Variflex trampolines. They were sold in 12-feet, 13-feet and 14-feet models in blue, yellow and red. Consumers were advised to stop using the trampolines and contact Bravo Sports for instructions on how to inspect and reassemble the support pieces. Any top rails and legs damaged due to assembly errors would be replace for free, the commission said. Consumers can call 877-500-2459 for information.