A personal injury attorney in Warrenton, VA can answer questions from parents if a child or teenager is ever seriously hurt at school or during a school-sponsored activity. There are various factors to consider, such as whether the parents have signed waivers that release schools from liability in these situations. Whether or not those waivers would hold up in court is another factor about which lawyers can provide insight. In addition, making claims against public schools involves a different process than filing an insurance claim against a private school.
Accidents can occur during gym classes and sporting events, and on the playground. In fact, thousands of kids are hurt in gym class every year in this country. Most of the injuries are minor, but some youngsters experience concussions, fractures or other injuries that require medical attention or even hospitalization. Another situation might involve a vehicle collision while traveling to a game or a musical, theatrical or spelling competition.
The school’s insurance typically pays claims for minor injuries without question. If something more substantial occurs, however, the insurer may seek to limit its liability. Parents dealing with that kind of situation should ask for help from a personal injury attorney in Warrenton, VA. A firm such as Gayheart & Willis provides free initial consultations so parents can learn whether they have a good case or whether the insurer is being reasonable. Contact us to set an appointment for that consultation. The lawyers may want to view medical documents and bills, and receipts for prescriptions. It’s best to make a list of questions and write up notes on every relevant occurrence since the accident. That way, the parents will be fully prepared for the consultation.
Insurers may offer a lower settlement than expected if the representatives believe the youngster had been behaving in an intentionally hazardous manner. For instance, if a teenager had been drinking alcohol or using drugs and then climbed up and jumped off a playground structure, a broken leg could be construed as the responsibility of the injured teen. The circumstances can be very complex, and state laws about liability and negligence also affect claims.
