Common Injuries from Hazardous Toys

Toy Dangers in California

When you buy a toy for your child, you trust that it is safe. Sadly, thousands of California families each year discover that even popular toys can cause serious harm. If your family has faced a toy-related injury, you are not alone. Understanding the types of injuries and your options under California product liability law can help you protect your child and your rights.

Recognizing the Risks

Not all hazards are obvious. Some toys present choking dangers, while others may contain toxic chemicals or sharp edges. If your child has been hurt, it is important to identify what went wrong. Hazardous toy injuries are more common than most parents realize.

Choking Hazards Explained

Small parts are a leading cause of toy-related injuries in California. Children under age three are especially at risk. Even toys labeled for older children can break, creating new choking hazards. Learn more about identifying hazardous toys and protecting your child.

Common choking risks include:

• Detachable eyes or buttons
• Loose batteries
• Beads or marbles
• Balloons
• Small wheels or axles

Toxic Exposure and Health

Some toys contain dangerous chemicals, such as lead or phthalates, which can cause long-term health problems. California holds manufacturers accountable when toys fail to meet safety standards. Product liability laws provide recourse for families harmed by toxic toys.

Look out for:

• Painted toys not labeled “lead-free”
• Soft plastic figures with a chemical smell
• Imported toys without safety certifications

Lacerations and Cuts

Sharp edges or poorly secured parts can lead to deep cuts. This is especially true with plastic toys that can shatter. If your child suffered a severe cut, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor.

Frequent sources of lacerations:

• Broken action figures
• Metal toy cars
• Toys with exposed screws or springs

Burns and Electrical Injuries

Electronic toys can cause burns or shocks if they are poorly designed or malfunction. California law requires strict safety measures for toys that use electricity. Defective appliances and toys may both fall under similar legal standards.

Risks include:

• Overheating batteries
• Faulty wiring in remote control cars
• Electric ride-on vehicles with exposed circuits

Eye Injuries from Toys

Projectile toys—like dart guns, slingshots, or flying discs—can cause serious eye injuries. Some injuries may lead to lasting vision loss. Dangerous toy injuries involving the eyes often require prompt legal action to secure compensation for medical treatment.

Notable toy-related eye hazards:

• Foam dart guns
• Toy lasers
• Slingshots
• Rubber band-propelled vehicles

Strangulation and Suffocation

Toys with long cords, ropes, or elastic bands can pose strangulation risks. Even stuffed animals with ribbons or clothing accessories can be dangerous for infants and toddlers.

Watch for:

• Pull toys with long strings
• Jump ropes
• Headbands or necklaces included with dolls

Impact Injuries

Larger toys, such as ride-ons or trampolines, can cause blunt force trauma. Falls from toys are a leading cause of emergency room visits for children in California. Bicycle accidents and ride-on toy injuries often overlap in their legal implications.

Common impact injury sources:

• Bicycles and scooters
• Trampolines
• Rocking horses
• Large building blocks

Hearing Damage

Some electronic toys produce loud sounds that can damage hearing, especially in younger children whose ears are more sensitive.

Typical culprits:

• Musical toys
• Toy sirens
• Electronic learning devices

Long-Term Consequences

Beyond immediate pain and medical bills, hazardous toy injuries can have lasting effects. Some children may need surgery, therapy, or ongoing care. California law recognizes these damages in child injury claims.

What California Law Says

California’s strict liability laws make it easier for parents to recover damages after a defective product injury. Manufacturers, importers, and retailers can all be held responsible if a toy is found to be unsafe.

Key points:

• No need to prove negligence—just that the toy was defective and caused harm
• Claims often involve multiple parties, including distributors and retailers
• The two-year deadline to file applies to most personal injury claims

Taking Action After an Injury

If your child is hurt by a toy, take these steps:

• Seek immediate medical care
• Keep the toy and any packaging
• Take photos of injuries and the toy
• Save receipts and documentation
• Report the injury to the Consumer Product Safety Commission
• Contact a California product liability attorney to protect your rights

Know Your Damages

Recoverable damages in California may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Costs for therapy or rehabilitation
• Lost earning potential (for severe injuries)
• Punitive damages (in rare, egregious cases)

Why Legal Help Matters

Toy manufacturers and retailers often have strong legal teams. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference. Attain Law understands California’s product liability laws and will fight for your family’s rights. If you want to learn more about similar claims, see our article on common injuries from defective medical devices.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hazardous Toy Injuries

What should I do if my child is injured by a toy in California? Seek medical attention, preserve the toy and packaging, document the injury, and contact a California product liability attorney for guidance.

What types of toy injuries are most common in California? Choking, cuts, burns, eye injuries, and toxic exposure are among the most common hazardous toy injuries reported in California.

Can I sue a toy manufacturer for my child’s injury? Yes, under California law, you may have a claim if the toy was defective and caused injury. Manufacturers, importers, and sellers can be held liable.

How long do I have to file a claim for a hazardous toy injury in California? Most product liability claims must be filed within two years of the injury, but it’s best to act quickly to preserve evidence and your rights.

What damages can I recover for a hazardous toy injury? Damages may include medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Contact Attain Law Today

If your child has been hurt by a hazardous toy in California, don’t wait. Call Attain Law at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you through every step.

Disclaimer: This is an advertisement. The information provided is for general purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for your specific case. Attain Law cannot guarantee outcomes, as results vary by situation.