Schools are meant to be secure environments where learning and growth can thrive. However, accidents can still happen, and if your child has been injured at school, it is essential to know the direct steps you can take to pursue compensation for their injuries.

At Fieger Law, we understand the complexities of personal injury cases involving children and their well-being. If you are seeking guidance after your child was injured at school, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today at 1-800-A-WINNER, or fill out our online case submission form for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Michigan.

Common Causes of Injuries at School

An injury can occur in various ways within a school setting. Some common causes of school-related injuries include:

  • Slip and falls due to wet floors or cluttered hallways.
  • Playground injuries resulting from unsafe equipment or lack of supervision.
  • Sports injuries during organized activities or physical education classes.
  • Altercations and fights among students.
  • Bullying incidents that lead to physical harm.
  • Food poisoning from cafeteria meals.
  • Natural disasters or emergencies.
  • School bus accidents during transportation.
  • Exposure to toxins due to poor air quality or hazardous materials.
  • Negligent security leading to incidents like assaults or thefts.

Each of these scenarios carries different implications in terms of liability. For instance, a slip and fall due to a wet floor might be attributed to the school’s failure to promptly address or warn students of the hazard.

Who Can Be Held Liable If Your Child Is Injured at School in Michigan?

Understanding who can be held liable is the first step towards seeking compensation for your child’s injuries. Firstly, schools have a huge responsibility to keep students safe while on their premises. This legal duty, often referred to as the “duty of care,” requires schools to maintain a safe environment to prevent foreseeable harm. If your child has been injured due to negligence or failure to uphold this duty, the school might be held liable for their injuries.

Other than the school itself, other parties may also be held responsible for your child’s injuries, including:

  • An adult in charge: Teachers, coaches, or other adults responsible for your child’s safety could be held accountable if their negligence or wrongdoing resulted in your child being harmed.
  • Parents of another student: If your child was bullied, assaulted, or injured due to another student’s reckless actions, their parents might be liable.
  • Vendors hired by the school: If a third-party vendor, such as a maintenance company, contributed to your child’s injury through negligence, they could be held responsible.
  • Manufacturers of defective equipment: If your child’s injury resulted from a defective product, such as sports equipment or machinery, the manufacturer might be liable.

Filing a School Injury Claim or Lawsuit

The process of pursuing compensation for a school-related injury largely depends on whether the school is public or private:

  • Public schools: Public school systems are typically part of the local government. Suing a government agency or their employees can be complicated, as they are typically immune from being sued under the doctrine of sovereign immunity. However, there are a number of exceptions to sovereign immunity, such as when the injury occurred in a public building or as a result of gross negligence, that may allow you to pursue a personal injury claim against the school district or the responsible employee.
  • Private schools: Suing a private school is much like suing any other private entity or individual. These claims are usually covered by the school’s insurance provider, and the school should provide you with information on how to file a claim if they have a procedure set up

Seeking advice from an experienced Michigan personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the specific procedures involved in your case. Call us today at 1-800-A-WINNER, or fill out our online case submission form.

Settlements Involving Minor Children

When it comes to settlements involving minor children, caution is of the utmost importance. A quick settlement may not adequately cover your child’s future medical expenses or other damages. Also, Michigan has stringent rules governing lawsuits and settlements involving minors, to ensure their best interests are protected.

In Michigan, a settlement involving a minor cannot be accepted without the court’s approval. It is, therefore, wise to consult a qualified personal injury lawyer who can ensure your child’s rights are protected, you meet the legal requirements to bring a lawsuit on your child’s behalf, and that any settlement fairly addresses all of their current and future needs.

Collecting Evidence to Build a Strong Personal Injury Claim

Evidence is the cornerstone of any successful personal injury claim. Collecting the following evidence can significantly bolster your case:

  • Photographs: Take pictures of the accident scene, your child’s injuries, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to the injury.
  • Security cameras: If the school has security cameras, request footage of the incident.
  • Witness statements: Statements from teachers, other students, or anyone who witnessed the incident can provide valuable support for your claim.
  • Document damage: Keep records of medical bills, treatment plans, and any other expenses related to your child’s injury.

How a Michigan Personal Injury Lawyer at Fieger Law Can Help

Navigating the legal complexities of a school-related injury claim requires experience and expertise. With the assistance of a skilled personal injury lawyer, Michigan parents can best ensure their child’s rights are upheld, the responsible parties are held accountable, and that their family receives the compensation they deserve.

If your child has been injured at school, don’t hesitate to contact Fieger Law for a free case evaluation. We understand the emotional and legal challenges you may be facing and are here to provide the support and representation you need during this difficult time.

Contact Fieger Law today at 1-800-A-WINNER, or fill out our online case submission form to arrange a free case evaluation with a Michigan personal injury lawyer who specializes in cases involving injuries at schools.