Football Injury at School...

by Beeta
(Attalla, AL, USA)

My son is fifteen years old and he got hurt in spring football workouts at school. As a result he had to have surgery and his school won't pay for any of his medical bills nor will they take any responsibility. As a result of the surgery he cannot bend down.

What can I do?

Disclaimer: Information provided in your response is not formal legal advice, it is generic legal information and is based on the very limited information given in your question. You should always get a formal case evaluation from a licensed attorney.

ANSWER for "Football Injury at School...":

Beeta (Attalla, AL, USA):

Normally injuries suffered at school by students are handled at the administrative level. From the facts you present it appears you have already attempted that route and were unsuccessful.

Don’t give up yet. When you say the school won’t pay for any of your son’s medical bills it is unclear who told you they would not. There are several administrative levels at almost all schools. Depending upon which level you began and finished at will determine which step should be next.

For example If you spoke with your son’s football coach and he denied the claim, then go to the athletic director. If that doesn’t work then to the vice-principal or principal. If you are still not satisfied contact the school superintendent’s office and inquire about the procedure for addressing your concerns with the school board. Before you do that you may want to alert your son’s principal. There is a possibility if she knows you are not going to take no for an answer and have decided to take your son’s case to the next level she may take another look at your son's case.

If she doesn’t change her mind present your case to the school board. You have an absolute right to address them in public at one of their hearings. Your case will be placed on the agenda and you will have your day “in court” so to speak.

If that fails you can always consider consulting with a personal injury attorney. Most will not charge for an initial office consultation. You will at least know what the issues are and the amount of time and energy required to pursue the claim through the court system.

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.

Best of luck,

Law Guy

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