In agreeing to settle the case, the city did not admit liability. In court records, the city contended that it “was in no way negligent, careless, or reckless,” but rather the school and swing manufacturer were the “sole and proximate cause of the injuries and damages.”
However, Anahit’s attorney, Lawrence Strid, argued the city failed to maintain, inspect and replace the broken swing set at 1621 Canada Blvd.
According to court documents filed on behalf of Anahit, the gash left her with long-lasting mental and physical pain.
The settlement comes a few months after an internal audit stated parks officials should consistently document playground equipment inspections. Not doing so increases the risk that inspections are not performed, exposing the city to greater liability, according to the report.
Of 72 playgrounds in the city, 34% did not have daily or weekly inspections performed, and 29% did not have inspections documented, according to the audit. At the same time, six playgrounds, or 8%, had more inspections than required.
Anahit also received a $3,500 settlement from her school — Arshag Dickranian Armenian School of Los Angeles — and $8,500 from the swing manufacturer, American Swing Products, Strid said.
The family didn’t independently sue the school and manufacturer, but the city wrapped them into the case by claiming they were liable.
