A new study found that every three minutes a child is treated in an emergency room for injuries related to toys. This landmark study is the first of its kind to fully analyze the cause of injuries to children. While defective toys cause injury, the majority of these toy-related injuries were not the result of improper manufacturing.
The Study
A study published in Clinical Pediatrics found that as children age, the type of injuries they suffer changes. The study covered a 22 year period from 1990 to 2011 and utilized data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). The NEISS compiles statistics from about 100 hospitals nationwide.
The study found that in young children (under age five), the primary cause of toy-related injuries is the ingestion of foreign bodies, such as small parts. Conversely, older children (age five and older) generally suffer injuries on riding toys like scooters, wagons and tricycles. Specifically, the researchers found that riding injuries account for 42 percent of all injures in children ages 5 to 17. For younger children, ingesting foreign objects accounted for nearly 14 cases a day.
The Findings
The study noted a nearly 40 percent increase in injuries during the period covered. The researchers attribute the startlingly rise to the increase in popularity of foot-powered scooters which saw widespread adoption by children in 2000.
The study also found that defective toys cause a significant portion of the injuries. Over the 22 year study period, there were 30 million unit recalls for 104 different types of toys. While recalls do succeed in removing some dangerous toys from the market, many parents remain unaware of the recalls and continue to allow their children to use the defective toys.
In fact, a separate study by Kids in Danger found that only a few toy manufacturers even publicize recall information on their social media accounts.
The Results
The researchers note that there is a dearth in product recall information available to the public. They warn parents and caregivers to stay up to date on consumer reports and to carefully monitor the toys they purchase. Essentially, the researchers warn parents to be aware that toys, even ones that operate correctly, can harm children. Don’t let small children play with toys that are choking hazards. Encourage children to use helmets on scooters and other riding toys.
A Reno defective product lawyer like Matthew L. Sharp may be able to help you receive redress for a child’s injury caused by improperly manufactured toys.