Increase in child injuries caused by falling furniture

An eighteen year study (1990 - 2007) by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the National Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio appeared in the online journal Clinical Pediatrics.  The research showed that there has been a 40 percent increase in injuries involving household furniture such as televisions, dressers, shelves and other common items.  On average 14,000 Americans under the age of 17 are taken to the emergency room each year becuase of injuries involving household furniture falling on them and about 300 of those cases result in death.  Most of the injuries that occur involve children 1 to 6 years old and are primarily caused by the child attempting to climb or pull on the object. 

A recent test by the Consumers Union has shown recently that it is not uncommon to find furniture from major manufacturers that is not in compliance with the standard to avoid furniture from tipping easily.  A new and improved standard is being put together by ASTM-International for household furniture and is scheduled to be published within the next few months for manufacturers to follow. 

To avoid child injuries remember to always check your furniture at home to make sure it isn't wobbly and does not appear to be a tipping hazard.

If you or your child has been injured contact Frank J. Dito Staten Island personal injury lawyer to discuss your case.  We are located at 1610 Richmond Road, Staten Island, New York 10304.  You can contact Frank Dito calling his office at 718-979-4300 or you can email him at fdito@dddilaw.com.  Also, you can read about other articles like this one, including recall information, at www.nyinjurylawupdateblog.com.