Trampoline Park Injuries: Can You Sue Despite a Waiver?
Trampoline parks are popular destinations for families, parties, and recreational activities. However, injuries at these facilities are not uncommon. When an accident occurs, many people assume they cannot take legal action because they signed a waiver before entering the park. In reality, the situation is more complex.
In North Carolina, liability for trampoline park injuries depends on several factors, including the cause of the injury, the language of the waiver, and whether the park acted negligently. Signing a waiver does not automatically prevent all legal claims.
Executive Summary
You may still be able to sue after a trampoline park injury in North Carolina, even if you signed a waiver. While waivers can limit liability, they do not always protect a business from claims involving negligence, unsafe conditions, or failure to follow safety standards. Each case depends on the specific facts and circumstances.
What Is a Liability Waiver?
A liability waiver is a document that participants sign acknowledging the risks of an activity and agreeing not to hold the business responsible for certain types of injuries. Trampoline parks commonly require these waivers before allowing entry.
While waivers can be enforceable in some situations, they are not absolute. Courts may evaluate whether the waiver is clear, whether it covers the type of injury that occurred, and whether it attempts to shield the business from its own negligence.
When a Waiver May Not Protect the Business
Even if a waiver was signed, a trampoline park may still face liability under certain conditions.
Examples include:
- Failure to maintain equipment or repair known hazards
- Defective trampolines, padding, or safety features
- Inadequate supervision or lack of trained staff
- Overcrowding or unsafe operation of the facility
- Failure to enforce safety rules
- Hazards that were not disclosed to participants
If the injury was caused by negligence rather than an inherent risk of the activity, the waiver may not fully protect the business.
Common Causes of Trampoline Park Injuries
Trampoline park injuries can result from a variety of unsafe conditions or practices.
- Collisions between participants
- Falls onto hard surfaces or exposed areas
- Equipment failure or worn-out materials
- Lack of proper supervision
- Failure to separate participants by size or age
- Improper use of trampolines due to lack of instruction
Some risks are inherent to trampoline use, but others may result from preventable safety failures.
Key Factors in Trampoline Injury Cases
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Waiver Language | Determines what risks were assumed |
| Cause of Injury | Distinguishes inherent risk from negligence |
| Facility Conditions | Shows whether the environment was safe |
| Staff Supervision | Indicates whether safety rules were enforced |
| Maintenance Records | Shows whether equipment was properly maintained |
Who May Be Responsible?
Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be involved in a claim.
| Potential Party | Possible Role |
|---|---|
| Trampoline Park Owner | Responsible for overall safety and operations |
| Facility Operator or Manager | Oversees daily operations and supervision |
| Equipment Manufacturer | May be liable for defective products |
| Maintenance Company | Responsible for equipment upkeep and repairs |
What Damages May Be Available?
Trampoline injuries can range from minor to severe. Depending on the situation, damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Long-term rehabilitation or care
The specific damages depend on the facts of each case.
What To Do After a Trampoline Park Injury
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the incident to park staff.
- Document the scene and equipment if possible.
- Take photos or videos of conditions and injuries.
- Identify witnesses and gather contact information.
- Keep a copy of any waiver or documents signed.
Speak With Burts Law
If you or a loved one has been injured at a trampoline park in North Carolina, Burts Law, PLLC can help you understand your rights and evaluate whether a claim may be available—even if a waiver was signed. These cases often depend on whether the injury resulted from negligence or unsafe conditions.
Contact Burts Law to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about your legal options.
