School events should be safe occasions for students, parents, and community members to gather. But when inadequate supervision, unsafe conditions, or negligence leads to injuries, victims need to understand their legal options. Whether you were hurt at a football game, school carnival, or fundraising event, here’s what you need to know about your rights:
- Can I sue if I’m injured at a school event? Schools and event organizers have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions. When they fail through negligence, they can be held liable. This applies whether the event takes place on school property or at an off-site location.
- Who can be held responsible? Liability depends on who organized the event and what caused your injuries. The school district can be held responsible for inadequate supervision or unsafe facilities. Event vendors face liability for defective equipment or negligent operations. Property owners are liable when off-site locations have dangerous conditions. Multiple parties often share responsibility.
- Are schools immune from liability? Many assume public schools can’t be sued, but that’s not entirely true. Ohio law provides limited immunity to public schools with significant exceptions. Schools can be held liable for negligence in operating motor vehicles, performing proprietary functions like concession stands, and when employees act with reckless or intentional misconduct. Private schools don’t have the same immunity protections.
- How long do I have to file a claim? Time limits are strict. Claims against public schools typically require filing a notice of claim within just a few months. Regular personal injury claims against private entities must be filed within two years. Missing these deadlines means losing your right to compensation entirely.
- What evidence do I need? Take photos of the hazard immediately. Get witness contact information. Obtain incident reports from the school. Keep all medical records. Preserve physical evidence like defective equipment. An experienced attorney will gather maintenance records, safety inspections, and prior complaints about similar hazards.
Schools and event organizers will try to minimize their responsibility, hoping you don’t know your legal rights. Their insurance companies will pressure you into accepting inadequate settlements or convince you that nothing can be done.
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your school event injury claim. When negligence at a school event causes you or your child harm, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
