My Child Was Injured at School. What Should I Do?

Colburn Law

Posted in Blog,Personal Injury on December 8, 2023

The safety and well-being of our children are among our top priorities as parents. Sending them off to school each day, we trust that they will be looked after and protected in our absence. However, when your child is injured at school, it can be a terrifying and unsettling experience. In these moments, it’s crucial to know the steps to take to protect your child’s rights and make sure that they receive the care they deserve.

Ensure Your Child Seeks Medical Care

The first and most important step is to ensure that your child receives prompt medical care. Even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term consequences, so it’s essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate your child’s condition thoroughly.

The school’s nurse may have provided treatment or the school may have requested emergency medical services already. However, if your child has not been seen at a hospital, it is crucial to take them to a medical facility as soon as possible. Keep all medical records and bills, as they will be important if you choose to pursue legal action.

Do Not Sign Any Waivers from the School

In many cases, schools may request parents or guardians to sign waivers or releases of liability. However, it’s crucial not to sign anything without first consulting with an attorney, especially in the aftermath of an injury. These waivers can sometimes limit your child’s ability to seek compensation for injuries that occur at school, and you could unknowingly sign away their rights.

Discuss Your Legal Options with an Attorney

Schools are responsible for providing a safe environment for our children. When an injury occurs, it raises questions about who should bear the financial burden of medical treatment and the long-term consequences. Understanding your legal options can be challenging, which is why it is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney can help you explore your legal options and guide you on the best course of action, initiating your claim before the required deadline.

Gather Evidence of the Incident

Collecting evidence is crucial in any personal injury case, but it can be particularly challenging when the injury occurred at school and you were not present to witness it. To strengthen your case, try to obtain critical documents or materials, such as school reports that document the incident, photographs of your child’s injuries, security camera footage if available, and witness statements from impartial parties who can provide a firsthand account of what happened.

Determine If There Was a Liable Party

Determining liability for a school-related injury can be complex. To establish fault, you need to identify the specific acts of negligence that led to your child’s injury. This may involve examining where the accident occurred and the circumstances surrounding it. In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for the accident. An attorney can help you investigate the situation and determine who may be at fault, informing your path forward.

Contact a Seattle Daycare Injury Lawyer Today

When your child is injured at school, it can be a challenging and emotional time. Seeking legal guidance is essential to ensure that your child’s rights are protected and that they receive the support they need to recover fully. After the incident, don’t hesitate to contact a daycare injury attorney in Seattle from Colburn Law who can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and advocate for your child’s best interests.