Oswestry woman sues after trampoline accident
A woman is taking legal action against a trampoline park after she fractured her spine on a jump.
Sarah McManus, 29, from Oswestry, has to wear a back brace after suffering serious injuries on a tower jump.
The accident happened at the Flip Out centre in Chester.
The personal assistant who works at the British Ironwork Centre went from being an outdoor enthusiast and keen walker to struggling to put her socks and shoes on.
She visited the park on January 15 and jumped from the four-metre high ledge into a foam pit.
"I followed the instructions on the sign and landed in the seated position as suggested, but when I hit the foam, I heard a crack in my back and felt like I'd been winded.
"I was barely able to breathe and couldn't shout for help so I had to throw some of the foam sponges in the air to get attention."
It was discovered she had fractured her T12 vertebra.
"I was fitted with a back brace that I wear daily and only remove it to shower and sleep."
“I’ve been pretty anxious and on edge since the accident. I struggle to sleep as I am always stressing about my back and whether it will heal properly. To begin with I couldn’t even put on socks or shoes, but while I’m getting there I still can’t drive or sit down for long periods.”
Miss McManus said she emailed Flip Out to tell them about her injury and raise concerns about the equipment, but received no reply.
Following her injury, three other people all reportedly suffered back injuries on the same attraction, which has since been replaced.
Express Solicitors in Manchester is representing Miss McManus.
Associate solicitor Jonathan Flattery said: "We know that three other people have been seriously injured on the 'tower jump' and, while it has closed now, it should have been shut down sooner.
"Serious accidents like these should not take place, however, for four to happen within month or so is unacceptable."
A spokesman for Flip Out Chester said: "Since opening in December, more than 200,000 people have visited Flip Out Chester and we have an excellent safety record.
"Safety is our number one priority and we strive to ensure that everyone who visits can enjoy all of the activities in a safe environment.
"We welcome feedback from our customers and we are investigating these claims to establish exactly what happened.
"We have replaced the tower jump with a new battle beam attraction."
