Have you ever made the effort to childproof your home? As a new parent, this is often a goal once your child begins to toddle around and grasp new objects. Complete childproofing is almost unattainable, but it is always important to monitor the news for new, or unthought-of, dangers.
Recently, there has been a media push to create awareness about the hazards posed by corded window blinds. For years, children have been injured by window blind cords that present a choking and strangulation hazard. Birth injury lawyer advocates have joined this effort to eliminate this safety hazard since the 1980s, and the movement is only now gaining momentum that is achieving results.
Over recent months, several national retailers—including Target and IKEA—pulled hazardous models of window blinds from their shelves. Now, these retailers only stock cordless blinds. Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart will not do the same until 2018. This delay could mean hundreds of unnecessary injuries, and even fatalities, for children exposed to corded window blinds in the meantime.
Some manufacturers of corded window blinds have increased safety measures. These include breakaway cords and features that allow consumers to raise the blind cords outside of the reach of children. These measures are still not as safe as cordless blinds.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission continues efforts to ban corded window blinds. Until this becomes a reality, parents and guardians of children should be aware of the risks posed by corded window blinds and take appropriate safety measures.
If a child you know has been injured or died from an incident involving corded window blinds, contact a board certified personal injury attorney to evaluate your potential claim.
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ Attorney Bio ]