Nurse sues Flip Out after leg injury at trampoline park
Nurse warns of trampoline park dangers after severe leg injury
A senior nurse has highlighted the risks associated with trampoline parks after breaking her leg in a foam pit. Jodie Wright, 36, visited Flip Out trampoline park in Preston, Lancashire. She leapt from a plastic stepping stone into a foam pit and suffered severe ankle and leg injuries, leaving her in immense pain.
Doctors had to insert metalwork and screws into her leg. Now, she is suing Flip Out for negligence and cautioning others about the dangers of trampoline parks. Earlier this year, David Shuttleworth and Matthew Melling, former owners of another Flip Out park in Chester, received 250 hours of community service and a fine after admitting to health and safety breaches. Eleven people had broken their backs at their venue.
Jodie, from Lincoln, stated, “Trampoline parks remain hazardous. People need to be aware. I went to Flip Out for a day trip last year but ended up staying in the area for over a month because I couldn’t walk. I followed the video instructions and still got injured. I still experience pain most days and have been told my symptoms may be permanent.”
Jodie Wright, from Lincoln, is taking legal action against the venue https://t.co/VXrZD7p8Ip
— Lincolnshire Live (@LincsLive) August 18, 2024
She visited Flip Out Preston last February with her partner’s daughter. After donning special socks designed for better grip and watching the safety video, she attempted the Stepping Stones attraction, which features plastic columns of varying sizes.
Jodie explained, “I found them quite challenging. So, I jumped into the foam-filled pit as instructed, but my foot hit the bottom, and I heard a crack, immediately knowing it was serious.” Staff responded to her screams, lowered a small step ladder into the pit, and helped her out. A female first aider initially suggested she had only sprained her ankle.
“As a nurse, I know the difference between a sprain and a break. I heard the crack. My leg wasn’t just broken; it was shattered,” Jodie said. She was taken to Royal Preston Hospital, where X-rays revealed a Pilon Fracture involving her leg and ankle joint, necessitating surgery. GP nurse and trainer Jodie added, “When the nurse touched my toe, I screamed. Having worked as a surgical nurse, I was very anxious because I knew the seriousness of my injury and the lengthy recovery ahead.”
She underwent surgery the next day. “The surgeon said it was a hard impact injury. My ankle was in pieces, with some bone halfway up my leg. It was horrifying to hear,” she said.
Due to her severe injuries, Jodie had to stay in Preston to recover. “I was given a Zimmer frame as I couldn’t put weight on my injured leg and ankle. I lost my independence and relied on my partner for basic needs. Fortunately, I could stay at my partner’s house. I was housebound except for medical appointments. It was a horrific time,” she shared.
She still has metalwork in her leg and has been informed she may need more surgery. She also experiences hip pain from limping. “Cold weather makes my leg very painful, and now my hip hurts because I’m putting more weight on it due to my limp,” Jodie added.
Following her injury, she contacted Express Solicitors, who have filed a formal claim against Flip Out Preston. Senior Injury expert Paul Stanley commented, “Jodie intended to have fun but ended up with significant injuries. Park owners must ensure their premises and attractions are safe for all visitors.”
A spokesperson for Flip Out, who deny liability, stated they constantly review procedures to ensure equipment safety. “Flip Out Preston is a franchisee-owned location. We take every injury seriously. Safety is our top priority. This was an isolated incident that was reviewed and investigated thoroughly. Customer safety is at the core of our operations,” they said.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to the nurse at the trampoline park?
She severely injured her leg and ankle after jumping into a foam pit.
Where did the incident take place?
The incident took place at Flip Out trampoline park in Preston, Lancashire.
What kind of injury did the nurse suffer?
She suffered a Pilon Fracture, which required surgery and metalwork in her leg.
Is Flip Out liable for the nurse’s injury?
Flip Out denies liability but states they continually review safety procedures.
What legal action is being taken?
The nurse is taking legal action against Flip Out for negligence.
