Flat-screen televisions are found in many homes across America, however, we typically don’t think of them as potentially dangerous to our children. A recent study published by the Journal Pediatrics shows that flat screen TVs pose a greater injury risk to children than previously assumed.

Troubling Statistics

Based on hospital records gathered between 1990 and 2011, about 17,000 children are hospitalized from TV related injuries each year. The majority of these injuries are head and neck trauma due to falling TVs.

The report determined the rate of injury linked to a falling TV almost doubled during the study period. Many believe this can be attributed to the rise in flat-screen TV popularity, as flat screens are often easier to topple than older, heavier models.

In a majority of these injuries, the TVs were placed on furniture that wasn’t sturdy enough or was not anchored to the wall correctly. Unfortunately, many parents are unaware of the risks these heavy items pose until it is too late and injury has already occurred.

Keep your TVs Secure

Most TV-related injuries are preventable if parents and guardians take the proper precautions.

If you plan on mounting your TV to the wall make sure you purchase a sturdy TV mounting system. These systems are typically simple to install yourself and are not that expensive. Make sure that when you are installing the equipment that you follow the directions carefully. If you mistakenly use a flimsy wall or do not install the system properly the TV can fall, potentially causing serious injury.

When placing a TV in your house, make sure that the furniture supporting it is solid and not easy to topple. Every parent knows that children love to explore and climb, so before placing your TV take the time to think about its location and how easy it would be to knock over. There are also reinforcement kits you can purchase that screw or strap onto your furniture which helps make them more secure and unlikely to topple.

If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in an accident that was not your fault, or you feel you may have a medical malpractice related claim or need social security disability benefits, call Graves McLain, the Tulsa Personal Injury Law Firm for a free confidential consultation at 918-359-6600. An experienced attorney will review your situation at no cost to you. We represent victims and their families in serious injury and death cases arising from medical mistakes, vehicle collisions, and other accidents.

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