(Houston, TX) — A lawsuit was recently filed by the parents of a Houston teenager who suffered seizures and a traumatic brain injury after falling through a torn trampoline canvas at a local trampoline park last June. The family is represented by an attorney at the Crosley Law Firm.
Mike and Traci Menchaca sued National Trampoline Entertainment Centers and National Trampoline Entertainment Dallas, II, known as “Cosmic Jump.” The suit is filed in Harris County District Court, and the plaintiffs are seeking damages to include the teen’s past and future medical expenses, as well as his loss of future earning capacity.
Unfortunately, these types of serious injuries at trampoline parks are becoming more common,” noted the family’s attorney. “An afternoon of fun can lead to a lifelong injury.” More and more trampoline park openings are announced each day, and injuries are on the rise as the number of facilities continues to skyrocket. In 2007, there were only six trampoline parks across the country. By the end of 2014, there will be over 200, including dozens in Texas. Trampoline parks are one of the fastest growing segments of the attractions industry.
Max Menchaca’s injuries occurred when he fell through a tear on a trampoline into an unprotected area underneath the trampoline platform at the Cosmic Jump located on Jones Road. The parents allege in their lawsuit that Max’s injuries were directly caused by Cosmic Jump negligently allowing dangerous conditions to exist on their premises. The lawsuit also alleges that Cosmic Jump either knew or should have known about the dangerous conditions that caused the injuries. “In Max’s case, we expect the evidence to show that Cosmic Jump failed to live up to its duty to provide customers with a safe environment,” stated the attorney.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2012 saw over 94,900 hospital emergency room visits for injuries associated with trampolines. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding recreational trampoline use altogether, noting the relatively high potential for serious injury.
By filing the lawsuit, the family wants to make trampoline parks safer. “Hopefully, this lawsuit will spread awareness of the dangers surrounding trampoline parks and help prevent more children and teens from suffering these types of serious injuries,” the attorney said.
Arizona, Michigan, Utah, and California have proposed new regulations to promote greater safety and accountability by trampoline parks. Similar measures have not yet been proposed in Texas.
Crosley Law Firm, P.C., is a personal injury law firm with offices in Houston, San Antonio and Edinburg. Learn more about us and our practice areas at CrosleyLaw.com.
