Personal Injury Attorneys Remind Parents to be Cautious When Using Lawn Mowers to Avoid Injuries to Children
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, about a quarter of a million people are treated for injuries caused by lawn mowers each year. Parents using lawn mowers and other outdoor equipment should remember to adhere to all safety guidelines in order to avoid injuries to children and themselves. Generally, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children are at least 12 years of age to operate a walk-behind power mower or hand mower and at least 16 years of age to operate a riding lower. Here are a few additional safety tips.
Before mowing the lawn:
[fancy_list style=”arrow_list” variation=”blue”]
- Read the lawn mower operator’s manual and any instructions for using the mower.
- Keep children indoors or at a safe distance away from the area you are mowing.
- Check conditions and do not mow during bad weather, such as during a thunderstorm; when the grass is wet or when it is dark outside.
- Make sure that protective guards, shields, the grass catcher, and other types of safety equipment are placed properly on the lawn mower and that the mower is in good condition.
- When using an electric mower, use a ground fault circuit interrupter to prevent electric shock.
- Never allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on lawn mowers or garden tractors.
[/fancy_list]
While mowing the lawn:
[fancy_list style=”arrow_list” variation=”blue”]
- Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes with slip-proof soles, close-fitting clothes and safety goggles or glasses with side shields.
- Watch for objects, such as twigs, stones, and toys that could be picked up and thrown by the mower blades, as well as hidden dangers.
- If the mower strikes an object, stop, turn the mower off, and inspect the mower. If it is damaged, discontinue using it until it has been repaired.
- Do not pull the mower backwards or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Carefully look for children behind you when you mow in reverse.
[/fancy_list]
After mowing the lawn, turn the mower off and wait for its blades to stop completely before:
[fancy_list style=”arrow_list” variation=”blue”]
- Crossing gravel paths, roads or other areas;
- Removing the grass catcher;
- Unclogging the discharge chute;
- Walking away from the mower; and
- When refueling, stop the engine and allow it to cool.
[/fancy_list]
New Jersey and Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys
The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Messa & Associates are experienced at handling personal injury cases involving injuries as a result of defective products. Our extremely skilled team of personal injury attorneys and medical experts is dedicated to ensuring you receive proper compensation for your personal injuries. If you have suffered an injury resulting from a defective product or any other type of personal injury, contact the personal injury lawyers of Messa & Associates for a free consultation. Call toll free at 1-877-MessaLaw, or submit a free online inquiry.
