Legal Options for Playground Injuries at Public Schools
Going out for recess is one of the best times of the day for many school-aged children. It provides a break from studies to go outside, soak up some sunrays, and expend a little energy on the monkey bars.
But what happens when a child gets injured? Who could be held liable for their medical bills? Keep reading to learn more about your family’s legal options for playground injuries at public schools.
Public Schools in Pennsylvania Have Immunity
Pennsylvania’s Political Subdivision Torts Claim Act generally grants public school districts immunity from liability. Although there are exceptions, such claims could be difficult to win.
To ensure a successful claim, you and your personal injury attorney from Bordas & Bordas must prove that school personnel were negligent and their carelessness was directly responsible for your child’s injury. We must also demonstrate to the courts that the public school’s administrators were aware of the danger yet failed to take action and prevent injury.
What Is Premise Liability at a Public School?
A public school has a duty of care to its students to provide a safe environment throughout its premises, including classrooms, playgrounds, and parking lots. In addition, schools are legally obligated to adequately supervise their students. If your child was injured at a public school because of a dangerous or unsafe condition, such as defective playground equipment or a slip and fall hazard, it is possible to hold the school liable.
However, because of the school’s sovereign immunity, the General Assembly has established clear caps on the amount of compensation you could receive if your claim is successful. In Pennsylvania, financial recovery cannot exceed $500,000 per incident, even if you received a larger award from a jury. There is also a short window of just six months from the date of injury to file a notice of claim. Your dedicated personal injury lawyer could ensure that you do not miss this case deadline and lose your right to pursue compensation for your child’s injuries.
Reach Out to an Attorney Who Understands Your Legal Rights Regarding Playground Injuries Sustained at a Public School
At Bordas & Bordas, we treat our clients with care and compassion because we understand that having to hire an attorney to seek justice for your child is one of the hardest things a parent must do. Our law office has won numerous premises liability cases that have recovered millions in damages for our clients, and we could do the same for you.
Start the process by reaching out to the knowledgeable Bordas & Bordas legal team at our office in Pennsylvania. We were recognized as one of the Best Law Firms in the U.S. this year. Let us review your case with a free consultation, explain your legal options, and guide you through the process so you can focus on your child’s health and well-being.