Adult portable bed rails are a device designed to help prevent falls or injuries for adults who have physical or mental limitations. These rails assist individuals with standing or positioning themselves on a bed to assist with mobility. They can also provide support while an individual is sleeping.
These devices are used in both private homes and care settings. While adult portable bed rails can be very helpful, there are also risks involved with using them. Defective or unsafe products can cause injuries, as can product misuse.
Understanding the Risks of Adult Portable Bed Rails
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has found that 90% of injuries associated with these devices are due to entrapment of the head, chest, or neck. CPSC has issued recalls for more than 3 million adult portable bed rails since 2021.
Becoming trapped between the adult portable bed rail and the mattress can lead to serious injury or suffocation. Falls and stability issues are another risk to be aware of; bed rails may collapse or shift unexpectedly.
CPSC issued new mandatory safety standards for adult portable bed rails in 2023. These standards aim to reduce the risk of entrapment and other hazards with the use of the devices. All adult portable bed rails sold din the United States and manufactured after the effective date are required to comply with the standard’s performance and testing requirements.
Preventing Injuries Related to Adult Portable Bed Rails
Check the bedrail to ensure that it has not been recalled. Verify that it complies with the CPSC’s safety standard. Read and follow all manufacturer warnings and instructions. Check to make sure the bed rail is compatible with the bed/mattress. Don’t climb over or modify the bed rail.
Prevent gaps by ensuring that the bed is pressed firmly against the side of the mattress and the strap is properly installed and secured. Leave at least a 12.5” gap between the rail and headboard/footboard. Keep furniture away from bed rail and never install multiple rails next to each other.
Legal Responsibilities of Manufacturers
Product liability laws hold manufacturers accountable for product safety. If a product cause harm due to a defect, the manufacturer may be held liable under strict liability, breach of warranty, or negligence. Manufacturers may face lawsuits if products are found to have inadequate warnings or design or manufacturing defects that lead to consumer harm.
If you or a loved one is injured due to an adult portable bed rail, get medical attention and document the injuries. Keep the defective bed rail, photos or injuries, and medical records. File a complaint with the CSPC and consult a personal injury lawyer.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
