Back-to-School Safety: Legal Considerations for Student Injuries in Denver
Safety should be a primary focus for school administrators, teachers, and parents as students return to school in Denver, CO. Schools have a duty to provide a safe environment for learning. Denver Public Schools has implemented a Safety Plan for district-run schools. Parents can also find information about a safe return to school on the SchoolSafety.gov website.
However, the reality is that unintentional injuries occur on school grounds, on buses, and during school-sponsored activities. In some instances, intentional acts of violence lead to student injuries.
In this blog, our Denver personal injury lawyers review back-to-school safety and legal considerations for parents. Understanding your child’s legal options is one of the best ways to protect their rights after a school-related injury or accident.
What Are the Most Common Back-to-School Injuries, and How Can You Prevent Them?
Students may be injured in numerous school-related accidents and incidents in Denver, including:
Automobile Accidents
The CDC reports that motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury and death among children. Returning to school means increased traffic in the mornings and afternoons. It also means that buses will be on the road, and more children may walk to school.
Causes of child injuries related to school traffic include, but are not limited to:
- Injuries resulting from failing to use seat belts and child safety restraints correctly
- Failure to obey traffic laws regarding school buses, including passing a stopped school bus
- Injuries at bus stops, including accidents boarding and getting off buses
- Failing to yield the right of way to children in crosswalks
- Lack of parental supervision at bus stops and while walking to school
- Speeding and distracted drivers
Drivers must be aware of these situations and pay closer attention, especially to areas near schools and neighborhoods. Distracted driving is among the most common causes of car accidents in Colorado. Parents should teach children about bus stop safety, how to cross a road safely, and a safe distance to walk away from traffic.
Playground Accidents
Playground accidents are common, especially when younger children use playground equipment that is unsuitable for their age. Softer surfaces and lower heights are crucial elements of a safe playground for younger children. Playgrounds should have protective surfacing to cushion falls.
Insufficient supervision on playgrounds is another common cause of accidents. Schools should have enough teachers or adults on the playground to supervise all children. Schools should also inspect playground equipment regularly to ensure that it isn’t damaged or broken.
Slip and Fall Accidents at School
Slips, trips, and falls are common causes of school injuries.
Slip and fall accidents often occur at school due to:
- Falling on steps
- Slippery or wet floors
- Damaged or uneven surfaces
- Intentionally tripping or pushing a student
- Debris and items in walkways
- Broken and defective playground equipment
- Inadequate lighting
- Lack of handrails and guardrails
Inadequate supervision can also factor in some falls at school, especially with younger children. Schools should take precautions to prevent students from being injured while any repairs are being made.
Violence and Bullying
Bullying and intentional violence can also result in student injuries. A school may not be responsible for individual acts of students. However, administrators and school districts should have policies in place to deter and reprimand students who participate in violent activities and bullying.
What Should I Do if My Child Is Injured in a School-Related Accident in Denver, CO?
Prevention is the key to keeping students safe as they return to school in Denver. However, even with the best intentions and prevention measures, accidents may still cause injuries. If your child is injured at school, their physical and emotional health is your top priority. Therefore, contacting a Denver personal injury attorney to handle the legal matters for you can be helpful.
You and your child could be entitled to economic damages to pay for medical bills, future loss of earning capacity, and other out-of-pocket expenses and losses. They may also receive non-economic damages for pain and suffering.
School-related injury claims can be complex personal injury cases. Determining liability and proving negligence can be challenging. These cases often involve government entities. Government tort claims have different rules and deadlines than personal injury claims against private parties.
If your child is injured at school, contact our Denver personal injury lawyers at Zaner Harden Law for a free consultation. We’ll fight to protect your child’s legal rights while you focus on helping your child heal and recover after a school-related injury.
Contact our Denver Personal Injury Law Firm Today For Help
For more information please contact Zaner Harden Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation with a Denver personal injury lawyer.
Zaner Harden Personal Injury Lawyers
1610 Wynkoop Street, Suite 120. Denver, CO 80202
(720) 613 9706
24/7
