Williams DeClark Tuschman held its 1st Annual Closing Argument Competition March 23, 2013 at the University of Toledo College of Law.  Congratulations to Rebecca Facey the 1st place winner!

Studies are beginning to indicate that parents’ cell phone use – known as the texting-while-parenting phenomenon – is responsible for a recent increase in child injuries. You know the scenario: You peek down at your smartphone to check an important work email and, before you know it, your 3-year-old child is trying to play with Cujo, the next-door neighbor’s 150-pound dog.  Although distracted parenting does not always end in tragedy, it can be a child safety risk:

1. The number of non-fatal injuries to children under 5 has risen 12% since 2007.
2. The number of people over 13 who now own smartphones has risen to 114 million – compared with 9 million in 2007.
3. Since 2007: Injuries involving playground equipment among children under 5 has increased 17%, injuries involving nursery equipment has increased 31%, and injuries involving swimming pools climbed 36%.

Although no formal studies have been conducted linking distracted parenting and child injuries, experts strenuously contend that the texting-while-parenting phenomenon is a major concern. Thus, parents should exercise the following tips to ensure their child’s safety:

1. No game playing – i.e. Words with Friends – until after the children are in bed.
2. If smartphone use while in the car is absolutely necessary, pull over first.
3. Put away the phone if the children are partaking in a risky activity like swimming.

Many parents don’t think twice about using their smartphone while parenting. However, parents should not wait until a disaster occurs to change their smartphone-use habits. By exercising the above tips, parents can ensure that they don’t suffer the consequences of the texting-while-parenting phenomenon.

A swing set provides entertainment for children and fond memories for parents. A swing set allows children to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and play with friends. However, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 51,000 children visit hospitals and emergency rooms every year due to injuries. Many of these injuries result from the following malfunctions:

1. The swing collapsing while in use.
2. The swing tips over, causing injuries to the user and those children around the swing set.
3. Protruding parts that cause scratches, lacerations, and cuts.
4. Poor materials used in the construction of equipment.

With Spring (hopefully) right around the corner, parents can take steps to ensure that their backyard swing sets remain safe:

1. For children younger than three, purchase a toddler swing set with enclosed sides.
2. Only purchase swing sets that have a minimum of 22 inches of separation between them.
3. Set the swing set up in a level location, away from overhanging objects.
4. Provide a safe landing area below the swing set.
5. Monitor children at all times while they are on the swing set.

Although backyard swing sets are a great source of entertainment for children, they also pose a serious safety risk. By exercising the above tips, parents can ensure that their children remain safe this Spring.

Chad Tuschman begins year with Seven Figure settlement regarding an individual injured in an accident. Details are confidential.

Peter DeClark resolves a case for Six Figure Settlement regarding the death of a teenager who died after being served alcohol at a party where the parent was present. Details are confidential.