No parent wants to see their child get hurt. This holds even more true when the injury is caused by the negligence of another person. A childhood accident could lead to long-term injuries, developmental issues, and emotional trauma. Depending on the extent of the injury, you may have to spend a significant amount of money on medical care or take time off work during your child’s recovery.
If you are struggling with the aftermath of this type of accident, meet with a Beaufort child injury lawyer as soon as possible. The Beaufort personal injury attorneys at Schiller & Hamilton could help you and your family recover the compensation you need to begin the healing process.
Common Types of Childhood Accidents in Beaufort
Children can suffer injuries in a variety of situations. Most of these incidents are minor, such as a scraped knee after falling on the pavement. However, many severe childhood injuries are the result of faulty products, dog bites, medical negligence, and school bus accidents.
Faulty Products
Parents rely on many child safety products to work as intended. However, faulty consumer goods can lead to devastating accidents. For example, in the event of a vehicle collision, a defective car seat could cause a child to suffer severe injuries. Additionally, children’s toys that lack proper warning labels or instructions could be dangerous if there are unknown hazards.
Dog Bites
When a dog is not properly restrained on the owner’s property, the risk of it getting out and biting a child increases greatly. Following a severe dog attack, a child may require costly medical care to treat their injuries.
A lengthy recovery could lead to a significant amount of time out from school. The experience itself could cause the child to suffer from post-traumatic stress or intense fear of dogs.
Medical Negligence
Healthcare professionals, hospitals, and other medical facilities could be held responsible for any breach in the standard of care that causes a minor to suffer injuries. These types of cases may involve errors during childbirth or procedures performed directly on the child.
School Bus Accidents
School bus drivers are supposed to be some of the most responsible vehicle operators on the road. However, some bus operators become distracted or intentionally ignore the rules of the road. This can lead to a large-scale accident involving several injured minors.
No matter the type of accident, parents should consider working with a lawyer who focuses on child injury cases. An experienced attorney could prove to be an invaluable resource when attempting to prove the negligence of the other party.
The Statute of Limitations for a Child Injury Claim
State law sets a time limit for filing personal injury lawsuits. Most injured parties have three years from the date of the accident to submit a claim. If they fail to file within that time, the court will dismiss the cause.
Because minors cannot file personal injury cases on their own, plaintiffs have until they turn 18 to file a child injury case. Though it may seem like there is plenty of time, it is best to consult an attorney soon after the childhood accident to avoid losing access to crucial evidence.
Contact a Beaufort Child Injury Lawyer Right Away
If your child was in an accident, you may not have the emotional capacity to deal with a legal claim. Fortunately, our legal team has the resources to handle your case while you focus on your child’s recovery. Call a Beaufort child injury lawyer today to learn how our firm could support you.