Can we get sued for neighborhood kids using our trampoline in our back yard?

Question

I have kids of my own, and of course they invite their friends over. We just bought the trampoline. I have a hard time telling people no, so how do I let the neighborhood kids know when enough is enough without sounding too mean and ungenerours? and are we responsible if something happens to them while playing on it?

Answer 1

Yes you are as you would be responsible if someone swam and drown in your pool. You have to show you tried to limit access to the trampoline. It will take more than a sign. There needs to be a physical barrier.

Answer 2

Absolutely - even if they're over there without your permission and when you're not home if something happens to them, you pay.

Answer 3

Yes you could be sued if one is injured.

Answer 4

You're liable if your kids invite someone over and the neighbor gets hurt.  You're liable if neighborhood kids climb your fence when you aren't home - it's called "attractive nuisance", and any fence that can be climbed by a child isn't considered enough security to remove your liability.

Quite honestly, I wouldn't allow any neighbor child on a trampoline that I owned unless they were accompanied by a parent, and that other parent and I remained in the yard to watch the kids.  There are too many ways to get hurt, quickly, on a trampoline.

Answer 5

Yes, you are.  And most homeowners insurance policies won't cover trampolines, or if they do, will charge you an exorbitant amount to do so.

Answer 6

Yes, by allowing them to use your trampoline, you are assuming the liability if someone gets hurt.  I suppose you could have the parents sign and notarize a waiver that says you are not liable for injury of their child but in this sue-crazy world, I'd consult an attorney as to the proper way to word that to protect yourself.

Otherwise, raise the liability coverage on your homewoner's insurance or deny the children access to the trampoline.

Answer 7

Absolutly you are libel if someone gets hurt using your trampoline. As mean as this sounds don't let them play on it until they get written consent from their parants.  

Answer 8

Yes, you are responsible.  

Answer 9

Yes you are. Even if you were not home. It is considered an "attractive nuisance", the same as a swimming pool. Even if the parents sign a waiver, it can be real sticky in court.

Answer 10

Yes,you can.But the chances of you winning the case would be pretty good if they weren't invited by someone who lived there.If they are invited,you are generally held responsible for their safety