Parents, as well as relatives and friends, often get excited when there is a baby around. The little bundle of joy is often showered with gifts, particularly nursery items. However, parents, including those in Pennsylvania, should be cautious when buying nursery products for small children.
Why should Pennsylvanians be careful when buying nursery items? According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission Report, a number of defective products have found their way into the market and have caused injuries and even deaths to children five-years-old and younger. In 2012, almost 78,000 injuries associated with the products were incurred all over the United States. The CPSC report also indicated that from 2008 to 2010, 333 fatalities were recorded, which meant that an average of 111 deaths were incurred annually.
Which particular products lead to the most injuries and deaths? In terms of injuries, cribs, mattresses, car seats, high chairs and strollers were responsible for approximately 67 percent of child injuries. Children were injured after falling. The face was the most frequently injured body part. Injuries to internal organs, lacerations and abrasions made up 73 percent of child injuries. In terms of fatalities, cribs, playpens, car seats, infant carries and bath seats accounted for 89 percent of deaths. Additionally, children often died from drowning, strangulation or asphyxia.
Although there are many durable, safe products on the market, parents who encounter defective products may have the option to pursue a product liability lawsuit if their child suffers an injury or dies because of the product. Through legal action, parents may seek justice and compensation. Consulting with a Pennsylvania product liability attorney may help parents to decide whether taking legal action is right for them.
Source: Cpsc.gov, “Injuries and Deaths Associated with Nursery Products Among Children Younger than Age Five,” Risana T. Chowdhury, Accessed on Dec. 22, 2014