Trampoline trouble

Summer sun brings out backyard fun. But when you set up your trampoline or fill your pool, you could also be setting yourself up for an expensive injury or lawsuit. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates there were over 104,000 injuries last year due to trampolines, which are famous for leading to head and neck injuries – even when they’re used properly.

Swimming pools and slides led to about 70,000 injuries last year. Because these are two of the biggest backyard dangers, you’ll pay more for home insurance if you have them. Home insurance applications typically ask whether you have a trampoline or pool – and the home insurance company’s property inspection will reveal their existence, too. You’ll be charged accordingly for these added risks.

It’s important to be honest about these – if you lie about having them and are sued over an injury due to a trampoline or pool, your insurance claim could be denied. You’ll be left on your own to pay for your legal defense and any court judgment.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s search tool lets you see injury estimates for a wide range of products.