Call Earley Before It’s Too Late!
For any parent, getting a call from the school saying your child has been injured is one of the most stressful experiences imaginable. Beyond the emotional impact, urgent questions arise: Who is responsible? How will medical bills be covered? What rights does my child have? In Massachusetts, there are laws that protect minors and their families in these situations. Here’s what you need to know to act quickly and safeguard both your child’s health and legal rights.
1. Common Types of School Accidents
- Slips and falls in hallways, staircases, or playgrounds due to poor maintenance.
- Sports injuries caused by lack of supervision or faulty equipment.
- School bus accidents, either during transportation or while boarding/exiting.
- Negligent supervision, which can lead to fights, rough play, or unsafe use of facilities.
- Exposure to unsafe conditions, such as poorly monitored science labs or broken playground equipment.
2. Who May Be Liable
Liability in these cases can fall on different parties:
- The school or school district, if there was poor maintenance or lack of supervision.
- Teachers or staff, in cases of direct negligence.
- Transportation companies, if a school bus accident occurred.
- Manufacturers or suppliers, if defective equipment caused the injury.
3. What to Do Immediately After the Accident
- Seek medical attention right away, even if the injuries seem minor.
- Request a written incident report from the school and keep a copy.
- Take photos of the accident scene, the object or hazard involved, and your child’s injuries.
- Speak with witnesses, including students and staff, and write down their names.
- Save all medical records and receipts related to your child’s care.
4. What Compensation May Be Available
Depending on the case, families may be entitled to:
- Current and future medical expenses.
- Physical or psychological therapy to aid recovery.
- Emotional damages, both for the child and the family’s overall well-being.
- Costs linked to missed learning or extracurricular activities interrupted by the injury.
5. Legal Deadlines in Massachusetts
In general, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Massachusetts is three years from the date of the accident. However, cases involving minors may have special rules that extend or adjust this timeline. Acting quickly is always the best way to avoid losing your rights.
6. The Role of an Attorney in School Accident Cases
Cases involving schools can be more complex than other personal injury claims because:
- They may involve public institutions with specific legal protections.
- They require detailed investigations to prove negligence.
- They demand experience negotiating with school districts or insurance companies.
An experienced Boston personal injury attorney can identify all responsible parties, gather strong evidence, and fight for fair compensation for your child and family.
Need Legal Assistance? Contact Our Law Firm Today
A school accident can impact not only your child’s health but also your entire family’s peace of mind. Taking quick action, carefully documenting what happened, and seeking the right legal guidance can make all the difference. In Massachusetts, you have the right to demand that your child receive the care and compensation needed to move forward. Contact us today at (617) 338-7400 or use our contact form for your free consultation.
