Does Home Insurance Cover Trampoline Injuries?

As summer approaches in Central New York, the idea of adding a trampoline to your backyard might seem like the perfect way to keep the kids entertained. But as you consider this purchase, a nagging worry creeps in: what if someone gets hurt? 

You're not sure how your home insurance would respond, and the last thing you want is to buy a policy that doesn't fit your unique situation.

At the Horan insurance agency, we understand your concerns. As an independent agency working with multiple carriers in Central New York, we have the informed perspective you need to make the right coverage decisions for your home. 

In this article, we'll explore the risks associated with trampolines, how they impact your home insurance, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Hidden Risks: Why Trampolines Are More Than Just Backyard Fun

Trampolines can be a blast for kids and adults alike. From Syracuse to Oswego, Auburn to Baldwinsville, families across Central New York enjoy the bouncing fun they provide. But they also come with significant risks that many homeowners don't fully consider.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) reports alarmingly high statistics for trampoline-related injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, as cited by the AAOS, there were more than 300,000 medically treated trampoline injuries in 2018, including over 110,000 emergency room visits. 

More than 90 percent of these injuries are sustained by children, primarily between the ages of 5 and 14. Alarmingly, over three-quarters of trampoline injuries occur when multiple children are jumping simultaneously and collide. These aren't just minor scrapes and bruises. We're talking about 

1. severe sprains, 
2. broken bones, 
3. concussions, 
4. ACL tears, and 
5. spinal injuries that could lead to paralysis.

Imagine this scenario: 7-year-old Nikki from next door is bouncing with your 8-year-old and 13-year-old sons. She gets double-bounced, flies 15 feet in the air, and lands on her head. Suddenly, Nikki's facing the possibility of never walking again. It sounds extreme, but it's more common than you might think.

Attractive Nuisance: Why Your Trampoline Could Be a Legal Liability

In insurance terms, trampolines are considered an "attractive nuisance." They draw kids in like a magnet, even when you're not home or haven't given permission. This means you could be liable for injuries even if you didn't allow the child to use your trampoline.

Learn more about how trampolines are viewed as attractive nuisances in our article: Avoid Home Insurance Denial by Fixing These 7 Property Issues.

Home Insurance Policies and Trampolines

When it comes to trampolines, home insurance policies can vary widely. Here's what you need to understand:

1. Your standard homeowners policy won't cover injuries to people who live in your home, but it may cover injuries to guests.
2. Some insurance companies require homeowners to sign a waiver excluding trampoline injuries from liability coverage. They might offer a $2 credit on your policy for doing so, but for that small savings, you're giving up significant protection.
3. When applying for insurance, companies will ask if you have a trampoline. If you do, some may refuse to write a policy altogether. Others might agree but exclude trampoline-related incidents.

Checking Your Policy: How to Find Trampoline Exclusions

If you're considering a trampoline, here's what you need to do:

1. Search your policy for the term "trampoline." You might not find it.
2. Look closely at your declarations pages for any trampoline exclusions.
3. If you don't see an exclusion and don't currently have a trampoline, you might be okay. But always check with your agent.

The Reality of Trampoline Ownership: Good Intentions vs. Actual Use

You might start with the best intentions. "I'll have strict rules," you think. "Only two people at a time, and I'll supervise carefully." But let's be real—that lasts about three weeks. Before you know it, you're trying to stop nine neighborhood kids from hosing down the trampoline for an impromptu water park.

If you decide to get a trampoline despite the risks, keep in mind:

1. Safety features like padding and netting haven't changed insurance companies' perspective. Trampolines are still seen as high-risk items.
2. Review your current policy and talk to your agent about how a trampoline might affect your coverage.
3. Be aware that enforcing safety rules is challenging and often short-lived in practice.

Making an Informed Decision: Weighing the Risks and Rewards

Before you set up that trampoline in your Central New York backyard, take time to weigh the risks and rewards. While trampolines can provide hours of fun, they also come with significant liability concerns that shouldn't be overlooked.

We Can Help You Assess Your Trampoline Risks and Insurance Needs

Deciding whether to add a trampoline to your Central New York property is a significant choice that goes beyond just fun and games. It involves carefully weighing the risks to your family's safety and your financial well-being. 

At the Horan insurance agency, we're here to guide you through this complex decision. Our team of experienced agents can:

1. Review your current homeowners policy to identify any trampoline-related exclusions or limitations
2. Explain how a trampoline might affect your insurance premiums and coverage
3. Discuss potential liability risks and ways to mitigate them
4. Explore additional coverage options if you decide to proceed with a trampoline purchase

We're committed to helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your family's needs and your risk tolerance. Whether you choose to get a trampoline or not, we'll ensure you understand the insurance implications and have the right coverage in place.

Ready to dive deeper into how a trampoline could impact your home insurance? Click the Get a Quote button below. Let's work together to protect what matters most to you.