1. Can I sue the school if my child was injured during school hours?

Yes, you may be able to sue the school if your child was injured during school hours, especially if the injury resulted from the school's negligence. Schools have a legal duty to provide a safe environment for students. If they fail to meet this obligation, they could be held liable for injuries. However, specific factors, such as how the injury occurred, will determine whether the school can be held responsible.

2. What steps should I take immediately after my child is injured at school?

After your child is injured at school, seek medical attention immediately. Make sure the injury is properly documented by the school. Request copies of any incident reports, take photographs of the injury, and gather witness statements from staff or other students. You should also consult with an attorney to evaluate whether you have grounds for a lawsuit and to ensure that evidence is preserved.

3. Who is responsible if my child was injured due to unsafe school premises?

If your child’s injury was caused by unsafe conditions on school premises, the school could be held liable for negligence. This includes hazardous conditions like broken playground equipment, slippery floors, or poorly maintained buildings. The school is responsible for maintaining safe premises, and failure to do so could make them responsible for your child’s injuries.

4. How long do I have to file a lawsuit for my child’s school accident?

In New York, you typically have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the school is a public institution, you may have to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. After that, you have one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit. It’s important to act quickly to ensure you meet all deadlines for filing your claim.

5. What kind of compensation can I expect for my child’s injuries?

Compensation for a child’s school accident can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any future medical treatments needed. In some cases, you may also be able to claim compensation for lost wages if you had to take time off work to care for your child. The total compensation will depend on the severity of the injury and the impact it has on your child’s life.