Playing sports at school is a great way for kids to get some exercise, enjoy social interaction and improve their sports skills. With dedication, sports pursuits can lead to scholarships and career opportunities. But who’s responsible when your kids are injured during school sports?
Consent forms and waivers for sports injuries
Typically, when your child signs up for a school sport, you’re usually asked to sign a consent form or waiver. These waivers are legal documents which demonstrate that parents are aware of the risks of playing this sport. In other words, if you sign your child up to play football, you’re acknowledging that this is an intense, aggressive sport which may result in injury—and you agree not to hold the school liable.
This makes it very difficult to hold schools responsible for sports injuries. However, there may be options available.
When are schools liable for sports injuries?
Although it’s difficult to hold a school liable for sports injuries, it’s not impossible. For example, if the school is distributing defective sports equipment, fails to maintain the grounds appropriately or if their coach is negligent or reckless, parents may be able to hold the school responsible.
Negligent or reckless coaches may be liable if they irresponsibly advise their players, such as telling them to use unnecessarily rough force during a game. They may also be negligent if they fail to address a child’s injuries or call for help once the child is actually injured, or push the child so hard that the student is injured as a result. Finally, a coach assaulting a student may result in school liability.
Who else could be responsible for sports injuries?
In some cases, the school and staff truly aren’t at fault—but a third party may be. For example, a sports equipment manufacturing company may design or manufacture unsafe products. If the school had no way of knowing, plaintiffs can pursue action against the manufacturer.
Finally, accidents caused by opposing teammates (intentionally or recklessly) could give rise to a personal injury claim, depending on the individual circumstances.
If your child has been injured in a school sports accident, the Law Offices of Tim Misny can help. Call today to find out whether you’re eligible to file a claim against a school or third party.
Discuss your claim with an Ohio personal injury attorney today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your school sports accident claim. If you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
