Understanding School Liability When A Student Gets Hurt In Physical Education
Gym class is a regular part of the school day for most students and is meant to promote fitness, teamwork, and fun. But it also comes with risks. Running, jumping, climbing, and contact games can lead to sprains, broken bones, concussions, and other injuries. When a student gets hurt during PE, parents often ask whether the school is at fault and whether legal action is possible.
Below, our friends from Hayhurst Law PLLC discuss injuries during P.E. and who may be considered to be at fault.
PE Comes With Inherent Risk But Also Responsibility
Physical education involves physical activity, and some injuries are simply part of being active. The law recognizes that certain risks come with exercise. However, schools still have a duty to make sure the activities are appropriate, the environment is safe, and students are properly supervised. When that duty is not met and a student is injured, the school may be legally responsible.
Was The Activity Age Appropriate And Safe
One of the first questions an attorney will ask is whether the activity that caused the injury was appropriate for the student’s age, size, and skill level. If younger students are forced to participate in high-contact games or use equipment meant for older students, that could be considered unsafe. Schools are expected to design PE lessons with student safety in mind and to adapt activities as needed to match the abilities of their students.
Was The Equipment Maintained Properly
Many PE injuries happen because of faulty or poorly maintained equipment. A torn mat, uneven gym floor, broken basketball hoop, or malfunctioning climbing gear can all increase the risk of harm. Schools are responsible for inspecting and maintaining gym equipment and facilities. If they knew about a hazard and did not fix it—or if they failed to inspect equipment regularly—they may be considered negligent if an injury occurs.
Did The Teacher Provide Proper Supervision
Supervision is a major factor in determining fault. PE teachers are expected to monitor all students during class, explain safety rules clearly, and stop any unsafe behavior immediately. If a teacher allows rough play to continue, fails to explain the rules of a game, or leaves students unsupervised during physical activity, that could be a breach of the school’s duty of care. Even if the activity itself was reasonable, poor supervision can lead to preventable injuries.
Following The Right Legal Steps
Because most schools are public, legal claims against them must follow government claim procedures. That usually means filing a notice of claim within a limited time, sometimes 60 to 90 days after the injury. A lawyer can help parents meet those deadlines and gather the evidence needed to prove that the school failed to protect their child.
When Gym Injuries Aren’t Just Accidents
Just because a child gets injured in gym class does not always mean the school is to blame. But if the injury was caused by unsafe equipment, poor supervision, or inappropriate activities, the school may be held legally responsible. A personal injury lawyer can help determine whether your child’s injury was preventable and whether the school failed to meet its legal obligation to keep students safe.