Schools, Organizations, Teachers & Coaches May Be Held Liable for Negligence
In the state of Florida, most parents and guardians are required to sign a liability waiver before their child can play a sport during a field trip, on their school’s team, or for an independent organization. However, signing a liability waiver does not necessarily mean you are then prevented from filing a personal injury claim. In fact, schools and independent teams cannot waive gross negligence under Florida law.
In the event an injury occurs due to a person or organization’s negligence, you can bring a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Some notable examples of negligence that may lead to a sports injury include:
- Coaches encouraging reckless or dangerous behavior
- Equipment malfunctions
- Lack of adequate supervision
- Lack of proper employee training
- Playing field defects
Never assume that you are without legal options if your child suffered a serious injury while playing school sports. If you believe negligence factored into your child’s injuries, you should consult with a local attorney right away. Our legal team is here to help you understand your rights and options.
Recovering Compensation in a Florida Sports Injury Claim
When you file a personal injury lawsuit for a sports injury or accident in Florida, there are certain damages you can claim. “Damages” are a type of compensation that reimburses an accident victim for any losses they suffered related to their injuries. Damages can be economic, such as surgery and rehabilitation costs, or non-economic, such as compensation for any pain and suffering you have endured.
Damages you may be eligible to receive compensation for include (if applicable):
- All medical expenses related to the accident, both past and future
- Loss of companionship and consortium
- Loss of earning capacity
- Lost wages
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Wrongful death
These damages are meant to cover any accident-related losses suffered by both your injured child and yourself. No parent should have to worry about how they are going to afford their child’s medical treatment, so contact an attorney right away to determine if taking legal action is right for you.