According to official data from the comptroller’s office, the number of playground accidents in New York is on the rise. With the summer months here, New York City playgrounds provide a readily available option for some fun in the sun, exercise, and family bonding time. However, some of the City playgrounds can prove dangerous for children.
A new report collated data collected over the past decades and shows a marked rise in injury claims at the playgrounds around New York City-even though the number of children in the nearby neighborhoods is actually decreasing.
The most common injuries includes burns to the bottom of children’s feet, injuries caused by broken or ill-maintained playground equipment, and even protruding nails or debris on the playground.
The comptroller’s office stated that this data is actually used to prevent future injuries. By analyzing dangers they can spot trends and remove problems (such as defective swing sets) before they cause additional injuries. They point to a case involving a Slope Hill playground that left three children with broken legs in a span of three months.
However, t he reports show that the risk of injury is only getting higher. Equipment and play surfaces in these recreational areas are deteriorating at roughly 2% per year. The comptroller’s report calls the Parks Department on the carpet, saying that their poor maintenance record and their inability to complete repair projects in a timely fashion is the reason for the increase in the danger.
While the City itself is financially liable for any injury suffered on public property if neglect or negligence is found to be a factor (including public playgrounds), getting that money can be difficult. If your or your loved one has been injured at in one of New York’s public playgrounds, you need a lawyer on your side. Contact an expert New York City playground accident attorney to get the compensation you deserve. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation at or 212-385-1122 to learn your rights.