A parent’s worst nightmare is their kid getting seriously hurt. If your child suffered injuries because of another person’s negligence, you may need to take legal action to seek justice from the responsible party. It is important to show that their actions are not acceptable and must be held accountable. Speak with a Columbus child injury lawyer to learn your rights and legal options. At O’Connor, Acciani & Levy, our skilled attorneys can help your family seek damages for your child’s medical care and other related services, such as physical therapy and trauma counseling.
Liability in Columbus Child Injury Cases
More than one person can be held responsible for causing physical harm to a child. Importantly, children cannot be found liable for their own injuries, as they do not have the same cognitive and emotional skills as adults. For example, say a group of children are playing at a construction site on school grounds during recess. If, say, the teacher was checking their phone and did not see the kids go to the dangerous area, and of the children decides to climb the construction scaffolding and falls, severely breaking their arm. Because the children should have been under constant supervision, the negligent teacher could be held liable by the parents and their local attorney. If successful, a child injury claim could recover significant compensation from the at-fault teacher.Childhood Injuries that Warrant Legal Action
Children can sustain injuries in a variety of negligence-based accidents. Our Columbus attorneys regularly bring child injury claims for the following types of incidents:- Auto accidents
- Defective products
- School and school bus accidents
- Birth injuries and other medical malpractice
- Slip and falls
- Amusement park accidents
- Incidents at public places, such as parks
- Pedestrian accidents
- Dog bites
Child Injury Statute of Limitations
According to Ohio Code § 2305.10, parents have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in civil court. The statute of limitations expires after the two years, so late filings will likely be dismissed. However, for cases involving minors, the injured victim retains their right to file for up to two years after their 18th birthday, regardless of when the accident occurred.Common Damages in Child Accident Cases
With assistance from our dedicated attorneys, parents can request various damages for their child’s suffering. Economic damages refer to specific expenses the parents had to pay because of their child’s injuries, and can include:- Emergency and ongoing medical care
- Prescription drugs
- Physical therapy
- Counseling
