According to a study, almost 100,000 U.S. children and teens have been injured in falls from windows over the past two decades— primarily on the first and second floors. About half the injuries were to the head and face.
The study appeared in the journal Pediatrics and researchers found that summer months, when windows are left open, saw the highest number of injuries and boys made up about 60 percent of the falls. One doctor noted that the “injuries are commonly severe and can lead to a lifetime of disability.”
Some doctors believe there should be mandatory regulations in places where children are at a greater risk of falling, such as high-rise apartment buildings. New York City requires window guards in apartments with children 10 and younger.
Researchers recommended homes with small children equip windows with window guards. They also suggested parents move furniture away from window areas since many children climb on furniture to gain access to a window. Most importantly, parents should be aware that a window with a screen is not adequate to prevent a child from falling. In the study, 83 percent of the falls were from windows with screens.
Messa & Associates has pursued many cases involving injuries and death to children. We combine our years of experience, thorough research and the knowledge of highly regarded experts to prepare these cases. For more information regarding window safety or if your child has been seriously injured as a result of a window fall, please contact us at 1-877-MessaLaw.
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