As the school year gets into full swing, excitement and new routines take center stage for students. For parents across Florida, this time of year tends to bring safety into focus. Specifically, ensuring the safety of children and teens away from home and at school. Whether your child attends a public or private school, staying informed about safety protocols and potential risks on school grounds and buses is key to their well-being.
Ensuring Safety on School Grounds and Buses
Schools, whether public or private, bear the responsibility of providing a safe environment. Here’s what parents should focus on:
- Playground, Sports & Facility Safety: For younger children, ensure playgrounds are well-maintained with proper surfacing. For both children and teens participating in sports, verify adequate supervision, coaching certifications, and proper safety protocols. Be aware of the school’s general upkeep; hazards like broken steps, slippery floors, or faulty equipment can pose risks.
- Bus Safety: The journey to and from school carries its own risks. Drivers must obey Florida’s school bus stop-arm laws, stopping for flashing red lights. Parents should ensure children and teens know bus stop safety rules, like waiting away from the road and making eye contact with the driver when crossing. Schools are responsible for bus maintenance and ensuring drivers are properly trained and adhere to safety regulations.
- Pick-up & Drop-off Zones: These areas can be chaotic. Remind your child or teen to stay alert and follow school staff directions. Drivers must be patient, follow traffic flow, and eliminate distractions.
What to Do If Your Child or Teen is Injured
Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Knowing what steps to take is crucial for your child’s or teen’s well-being and your potential legal options:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your child’s or teen’s health is the priority. Document all injuries, even if they seem minor, as some may develop later.
- Report the Incident Promptly: Notify the school administration and relevant staff (e.g., bus driver, coach) immediately. Insist on an official incident report and obtain a copy for your records.
- Gather Information & Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, any contributing hazards, and the injury itself. Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Understand Liability & Your Rights: Schools have a duty to ensure safety. If negligence contributes to an injury (e.g., inadequate supervision, unsafe premises, or a faulty bus), you may have a claim. Be aware that suing public schools in Florida can be complex due to sovereign immunity, which limits liability. Private schools typically fall under standard negligence laws.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Navigating school injury claims requires specific legal knowledge. An experienced attorney can help you determine liability, understand Florida’s unique laws (like sovereign immunity limits), gather necessary evidence, and pursue fair compensation for medical bills, pain, and other damages. They can guide you through the process, especially given the complexities of Florida law and potential deadlines.
Your vigilance is your child’s or teen’s strongest advocate. By staying informed, you can contribute to a safer school environment and know what steps to take if an unfortunate incident occurs. If your child or teen experiences an injury at school or on a bus, reach out to Winston Law for a free consultation to discuss their rights and your family’s options.
