Interesting.

Things appear to be different in the UK. I went to a new playground (new as in weeks old) the other day. It has multiple metal slides, a sand pit, merry-go-rounds, towering wooden structures to climb on (perhaps 5+ metres), monkey bars, exposed concrete climbing wall/structure etc. Some photos here: https://www.brentcrosstown.co.uk/claremont-park-play

A recent realization I had is why Europe is less lawsuit prone and generally seems less concerned with liability – we don’t need to sue anyone to afford a broken bone.

It was absolutely shocking to me how many times my insurance claim form for a snowboarding accident in USA asked if I really don’t plan on suing anyone. The insurance company tries very very hard to not be the one who pays up … now imagine someone who doesn’t have good insurance.

I imagine the chance of getting sued for every playground injury makes you design things differently.

I don't know about either the US or health insurance but there is a concept called 'subrogation', which means that if the insurance company pays a claim then they have the right to sue the person who caused it.

There is a higher degree of self-responsibility here in Europe. You cannot sue someone for drinking too hot coffee or fall from a playground item. Or swallowing small LEGO pieces in a McDonalds meal.

Yes I think that stems largely from not having to find a scapegoat for your medical costs. They get paid largely without you noticing regardless of who’s at fault.

In USA admiting it was your mistake can be financially ruinous. So people don’t.

Metal slides still are built for new playgrounds. Plastic is cheaper, but doesn't last as long. It is about the budget, more than anything.