Lack of recreational supervision causes serious gymnastics injury ...

Case Overview

This case involves a 13-year old female who sustained a serious injury while practicing gymnastics. The plaintiff was participating in gymnastics, and while she used the AAI single bar to perform a front giant rotation, the equipment (bar) suddenly collapsed and dropped approximately 10 inches. The plaintiff sustained serious injuries as a result of the accident. Prior to the plaintiff?s accident, the children were allowed to setup the equipment, but the equipment was not checked or prepared by adult supervisors or coaches on the day of this incident.

Question for Expert Witness

Do gymnastics facilities require a coach or supervising adult to ensure that the students have properly arranged the equipment?

Answer from Expert Witness

I have worked in the gymnastics industry for over 30 years as a coach and a judge. I am very familiar with the procedures that must be adhered to in order to ensure that all equipment is properly setup and checked. I have coached students at all levels, from pre-school to elite competitors. I am also an internationally certified judge and hold a safety certification from USA Gymnastics.

Answer from Expert Witness #2

It certainly sounds like protocol was not followed here. As an adjunct professor and former professor and administrator at a university, I have been involved with recreation and sports for the past thirty years. I have been involved in many gymnastic safety symposiums and my teaching and research duties focused on safety and risk management. Also, I am certified as a recreation administrator, with recreational experience at all levels.

Answer from Expert Witness #3

It certainly seems like the instructors were at fault here. Under no circumstances should students ever assemble any of the equipment. In any event, the instructors must make sure that the equipment is set up properly before anyone uses it. I am highly experienced with recreational and athletic activities having worked in this field my entire career. With respect to gymnastics, I have investigated and testified in numerous identifiable gymnastic apparatus cases over 30 years. I have also investigated other sports and recreation equipment assembly and supervision injuries.

Source: http://www.theexpertinstitute.com/lack-of-recreational-supervision-causes-serious-gymnastics-injury/

gabby giffords gabby giffords geithner gabrielle giffords juliette lewis chelsea handler mitch daniels