What are our rights if my son suffered a broken arm while at an indoor playground facility?
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What are our rights if my son suffered a broken arm while at an indoor playground facility?
We were told after the incident that the business would not help with any medical bills since they were a “play at your own risk” facility. After returning to the business following the injury, I noted that the only visible sign that stated “play at your own risk” was located in the play structure itself and not clearly visible to any patrons other than the children that were in the play structure. Furthermore, there were no signs on the entrance or at the admission counter denying their liability for any injuries. We did not sign a liability waiver nor did the employees discuss any risks or liability when we paid for our child’s admission. Can the business be held liable?
Asked on September 28, 2015 under Personal Injury, Ohio
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
They can only be held liable if at fault in some way. That means that, for example, if the play equipment was badly designed, manufactured, assembled, or otherwise inherently dangerous, then they may be liable. Or if some employee there accidentally or deliberately pushed or shoved your child or if they allowed an unsafe number of children to use the equipment or occupy the space at the same time. If not at fault, though, they would not be they are not your insurer, and are only liable if and to the extent they are at fault. Using an indoor playspace is inherently somewhat risky you assume the risk of the typical or ordinary injuries that can happen in such a space and on such equipment when you let your child play there, and they are only responsible for injuries caused by some unsafe condition or behavior on the playspace's part.
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