The holiday season in Miami brings joy and excitement, but it also presents hidden dangers that can lead to serious injuries for children. You might not be surprised to learn that a top reason for harm to young people is toys. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) publishes warnings on toys, which are responsible for around a dozen fatalities to children annually. Another 154,700 children under 12 years old seek medical treatment at emergency rooms for toy-related injuries.
However, there are many other dangers that present a risk of injuries to kids. Some causes of accidents are actionable, so parents can seek compensation from the negligent party. A Miami child injuries attorney can explain the legal process, but parents should be aware of the potential dangers and take precautions to ensure a safe season.
Burns from Holiday Decorations and Cooking
Burn injuries are common, often stemming from holiday decorations and cooking mishaps. For instance:
- Children may come into contact with open flames from candles, menorahs, or fireplaces.
- Hot lights on Christmas trees and decorations can also cause burns.
- In the kitchen, children risk injury from touching hot pots, pans, or stovetops while meals are being prepared.
Parents should keep lit decorations and cooking areas out of children’s reach to minimize these hazards during the festive season.
Falls From Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations create a magical atmosphere but also increase the risk of falls for children. Unstable Christmas trees may topple if climbed or pulled on, and ornaments left on the floor can create tripping hazards. Stairways decorated with garlands or lights can also pose risks if children lose their footing.
To reduce these dangers, secure trees with a sturdy base, avoid overloading stairways, and ensure that decorations are safely positioned.
Injuries from Gifts
Gifts are a joy for children but can lead to injuries if not chosen carefully. Parents should always read toy labels for safety recommendations and select age-appropriate items. Supervising playtime with new toys can help ensure children use them safely and avoid preventable accidents during the holidays.
Car Accidents During Holiday Travel
Holiday travel in Miami often results in crowded roads and an increased risk of car accidents, affecting families traveling with children. Negligence, such as distracted driving or improper car seat usage, can lead to severe injuries for young passengers. Ensure children are secured in age-appropriate car seats and drive attentively to prevent accidents. For parents whose children are injured in accidents caused by others, seeking legal advice can help hold negligent parties accountable.
Consult with Our Miami Child Injuries Lawyers Right Away
The holidays should be a time of happiness and celebration, but keeping your children safe is paramount. Parents whose children have been injured due to negligence deserve experienced legal support. Gerson & Schwartz, PA, has been helping families in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach seek justice for decades. Contact our team today to discuss your case. You can call (305) 371-6000 or check out our website to schedule a free consultation.