Dangers of Unanchored Furniture

Every day, unanchored furniture injures people throughout the country. In fact, Consumer Reports discovered that unanchored furniture causes an injury every 17 minutes. While furniture that is not secured to the wall can be hazardous to just about anyone, it is particularly dangerous for children and senior citizens.

If you or a loved one has sustained an injury as a result of unanchored furniture that unexpectedly tipped over, reach out to an experienced Texas product liability lawyer at The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers. We may be able to help you secure compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Call us at (866) 523-4167 today, or reach out through the online form to schedule a free, initial case consultation with The Law Giant.

What is Unanchored Furniture?

Unanchored furniture is not secured to a surface or wall and has the potential to fall forward and cause serious injuries. Unfortunately, a piece of unanchored furniture can easily suffocate a victim when it falls. While any type of furniture can tip over, dressers, armoires, shelves, large mirrors, sliding door closets, and televisions are several examples of the most common pieces that cause injury victims serious harm. Home furnishings such as room dividers and screens, paintings, and sculptures can also pose a threat.

Although most unanchored furniture is large and heavy, smaller and lighter items can also fall and cause someone harm.

Why are Children and Seniors More Susceptible to Unanchored Furniture Injuries?

Many children view furniture as toys. They like to climb onto it, hide inside of it, and even hang from it. When they do so on an unanchored or unbalanced piece of furniture, it can easily fall and quickly crush them.

Sadly, when unanchored furniture falls onto children and they scream, their screams are often unheard, and it can take some time for a parent or another caregiver to find them. This delay can worsen their injuries and may even take their lives.

In addition to children, senior citizens are at high risk for injuries from unanchored furniture. Those who use assistive devices such as canes and walkers have balance issues and may hold onto furniture or home furnishings to keep themselves stable. If the furniture pieces are not attached to the wall, they can fall on the older adults and lead to serious injuries.

Are There Laws to Protect Against Unanchored Furniture?

There have not been any strict rules or regulations enforced to address unanchored furniture. Therefore, manufacturers have decided to self-regulate by adopting industry standards. Since these standards are optional, however, many companies choose to opt out because of the expense that comes with implementing them.

Since many companies are relaxed with keeping their furniture safe, it’s important to be selective in the pieces you buy and make sure it’s sturdy. You should also secure any top-heavy furniture that you have, mount flat-screen televisions, and remove dangerous objects from your home.

Examples of Unanchored Furniture Accidents

Over the years, there have been many accidents that were the result of unanchored furniture. Some of the most noteworthy ones include:

• In 2005, a 200-pound wardrobe fell onto Katie Lambert a two-year old girl from Pennsylvania, killing her instantly.
• In 2014, a two-year-old boy named Curren Collas, also from Pennsylvania, lost his life after a 136-pound dresser tipped onto him while he was climbing it.
• In 2014, an almost two-year old, Camden Ellis, was pinned by a dresser and died.

Injured by Unanchored Furniture? Contact The Law Giant

If you or your child has been hurt by unanchored furniture, it is in your best interest to consult The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers right away. We can investigate your case and determine whether the manufacturer or seller is liable so you can file a product liability claim against them.

To schedule a free evaluation of your case, contact us at (866) 523-4167 today.