10 Most Dangerous Toys of 2011 | Get the Right Lawyer

Each year, World Against Toys Causing Harm, Inc. (W.A.T.C.H) compiles a list of 10 toys that have the potential to cause serious childhood injuries or even death. Because of W.A.T.C.H.’s efforts, as well as the positive response from both the media and the public, there have been many toy and product design changes. This article discusses the organization’s picks for 2011’s ’10 Worst Toys.’

Free Dangerous Toy Lawsuit Evaluation: If your child or other loved one was seriously injured by a toy, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit against the manufacturer of the toy and we can help.

Twist ‘n Sort

Manufactured by Guidecraft, Inc., the Twist ‘n Sort play set consists of a ‘brightly colored geometric block and solid wood base,’ and is designed to provide ‘years of developmental fun’ with ‘problem solving challenges’ and ‘fine motor practice.’

However, in October 2011, certain lots of the Twist ‘n Sort were recalled because “[t]he small pegs on three of the four posts can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.” Even after the recall, Twist ‘n Sort toys still on the market demonstrated the same basic choking hazard identified in the government’s recall notice.

Power Rangers Samurai Mega Blade

Bandai’s Power Rangers Samurai Mega Blade contains a rigid plastic ‘sword’ that extends two feet. The blade has been reported to have the potential to cause serious facial and other impact injuries.

The package insert reads: “CAUTION: PLEASE READ BEFORE PLAYING WITH TOY.  Do not: (1) aim toy at anyone, (2) hit anyone with toy, (3) poke anyone with toy, (4) swing toy at anyone….”; and other cautions and warnings.

Fold & Go Trampoline

The Fold & Go Trampoline is marketed for use by children as young as three years old, yet it is dangerous in a number of ways. The trampoline contains small parts (choking hazards), and misuse of the device can cause serious injuries.

According to W.A.T.C.H., the many hazards associated with the Fold & Go Trampoline should make it apparent to manufacturers and retailers that such equipment should not be sold as a playtime activity for young children.

Pulling Animal Duck

This wooden duck is sold as a pull toy for 1-year-old babies, yet it contains a cord that is approximately 33” long, making it a serious strangulation hazard. The industry’s standard limits strings on crib and playpen toys to one foot in length.

School Bus

Manufactured by Schylling, this miniature yellow school bus is sold with a ‘choking hazard’ warning sticker on the label. The bus’s rubber tires can be easily removed, presenting the potential for a serious choking injury for oral age children.

Z-Curve Bow

Zing Toys’ Z-Curve Bow is sold with three ‘long-range’ foam arrows, which are supposedly able to fly ‘over 125 FEET.’ According to the warning label, “Arrows should not be pulled back at more than half strength… Anyone within close distance to intended target should be alerted prior to firing….”

Stepper ‘Low Rise’ Stilts

These colorful plastic platforms are sold as ‘perfect low rise stilts,’ however, the manufacturer provides no warnings or cautions. The instructions merely state to “[j]ust step on the platform, pull the ropes up tight, and begin to walk around” while balancing on top of the cups. W.A.T.C.H. believes the Stepper ‘Low Rise’ Stilts present a serious potential for head and other impact injuries.

Sword Fighting Jack Sparrow

This Jack Sparrow action figure is armed with a 4 1/2”-long rigid plastic sword that thrusts in an upward motion at the push of a lever. This poses a serious potential for eye and other impact injuries. The manufacturer failed to provide any warnings about this risk on the toy’s packaging.

The Incredible Shrinky Dinks Maker

This oven uses a standard 120-volt house current, and shrinks a ‘shrinky dink’ in a ‘heating chamber’ with a 60-watt light bulb. The danger of this toy is obvious by the litany of warnings and cautions on the product’s packaging:

“CAUTION-ELECTRIC TOY:  As with all electric products, precautions
shall be observed…to prevent electric shock.”
“WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD.  Pull plug before changing light bulb.”
“DANGER – To prevent electric shock, do not immerse in water….”
“CAUTION – SUPERVISION REQUIRED – ELECTRIC TOY- UNPLUG WHEN NOT IN USE.”

’Gigan’ Godzilla Figure

This Godzilla figure features rigid, pointed fins and wings, as well as sharp, dagger-like attachments on its arms. These solid plastic protrusions present the very real possibility for penetrating and impacting injuries.

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FAQs

What should I do with the dangerous toy that caused my child’s injury?

If the toy caused your child’s injury, it is crucial to preserve it as evidence. Do not attempt to repair or alter the toy in any way. Your lawyer may arrange for the toy to be inspected by experts to determine if it was defectively designed or manufactured.

Can I file an individual lawsuit instead of joining a class action related to dangerous toys?

Yes, you can file an individual lawsuit if you prefer not to join a class action. An individual lawsuit may allow for a more personalized approach to your specific circumstances and potential compensation.

What are the potential long-term effects of injuries caused by dangerous toys?

The potential long-term effects of injuries caused by dangerous toys can include permanent physical damage, psychological trauma, cognitive impairments, and in severe cases, disability or death. These issues may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.

How does the statute of limitations apply to dangerous toy lawsuits?

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to product liability or personal injury varies by state but generally ranges from two to four years from the date of injury. It’s important to consult with a lawyer to ensure your case is filed within the required timeframe.

See the other product liability lawsuits that we’ve covered.

Do You Have a Dangerous Toy Lawsuit?

The Product Liability & Defective Drug Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in dangerous toy lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new personal injury cases in all 50 states.

Free Dangerous Toy Lawsuit Evaluation: If your child or other loved one was seriously injured by any of the dangerous toys mentioned in this article, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a dangerous toy injury suit and we can help.