Help for Families When a Child Is Injured at Summer Camp

As summer approaches, many parents are looking for a place to send their children during the summer. Summer camps provide children with a memorable and enriching experience, but accidents can occur, resulting in injuries. When these occur, it is important to understand who is responsible for these injuries. Sometimes, the fault lies with multiple parties, which can make filing a lawsuit more complicated. This is why it is important to seek the help of a Vancouver, Washington personal injury or premises liability attorney.

What are the risks in sending your child to summer camp?

When considering what camp to send your children to over the summer, it is critical to ensure that the campground and the workers there are properly trained in not just leading children, but in keeping them safe from the many different risks and injuries campers may encounter.

The summer camp, its employees and/or volunteers, and other third-parties may be liable for:

• On-site injuries. When a child sustains an injury on the camp premises, liability may depend on several factors. Camps have a duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment for campers. If negligence, such as inadequate supervision, hazardous conditions, or faulty equipment, contributed to the injury, the camp may be held liable for the child’s damages. Serious injuries at summer camps include:
  • Broken bones. Falls, sports activities, or accidents during camp-related events like climbing trees. Broken bones during childhood can proceed to cause complications and problems later in their life, and should be taken seriously.
  • Drowning. Swimming pools, lakes, or other bodies of water can pose significant risks, making water safety protocols and adequate supervision critical.
  • Burns. Camps often include spending time around a campfire, which can prove to be dangerous if proper supervision is neglected.
  • Heat exhaustion. Lack of proper hydration or aggressive physical activity in hot summer weather can bring on heat exhaustion, cramps, and heatstroke.
  • Animal attacks. Camping in the woods means being among wildlife such as racoons, bats, bears, or even the campsite’s local dog or cat.
  • Traumatic brain injuries. These can occur due to falls, sports-related collisions, or other accidents, emphasizing the need for appropriate safety measures and prompt medical attention.
• Transportation and field trip injuries. During transportation to and from camp or on field trips, accidents can occur. In these cases, liability may extend to multiple parties. The camp may be responsible for ensuring safe transportation arrangements, including properly maintained vehicles and qualified drivers. If a transportation or field trip accident occurs due to negligence, the camp, transportation company, or even the driver could be held liable for resulting injuries.
• Risks of shock/allergic reactions. Camps also need to consider the risk of shock or allergic reactions, particularly in children with known allergies to such things as bee stings or peanut allergies. It is crucial for camps to have thorough medical histories and allergy information for each camper. In the event of an anaphylactic reaction, the responsibility lies with the camp to ensure that counselors, including 15-year-old junior counselors, are properly trained to recognize the signs and respond appropriately. Failure to address severe allergic reactions promptly and effectively could potentially expose the camp to liability.

How can a Vancouver, WA attorney help if my child was injured at summer camp?

If your child has been injured at summer camp, seeking the assistance of an attorney can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the legal process. Here are some ways in which an attorney can help:

• Legal advice and guidance. An attorney focusing exclusively on personal injury can evaluate the circumstances surrounding your child’s injury, assess the potential liability of the camp, and provide you with expert legal advice. They can explain your rights, help you understand the legal process, and guide you on the best course of action to pursue.
• Investigation and gathering evidence. Attorneys have the resources and experience to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. They can collect evidence, such as witness statements, photographs, video footage, medical records, and camp policies, to build a strong case on behalf of your child. This investigation aims to establish liability and prove negligence, which is crucial in seeking compensation.
• Negotiating with insurance companies. Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and challenging. An attorney can handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company representing the camp or other parties involved. They will work to protect your child’s rights and advocate for fair compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages.
• Pursuing legal claims. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, an attorney can initiate a legal claim on behalf of your child. They will prepare all necessary legal documents, file the lawsuit within the applicable statute of limitations, and represent your child’s best interests throughout the legal proceedings.
• Legal representation in court. In the event that the case goes to trial, an attorney will provide skilled legal representation and advocate for your child’s rights in court. They will present the evidence, argue your case, cross-examine witnesses, and strive to obtain a favorable outcome.
• Ensuring fair compensation. The primary goal of an attorney is to pursue fair compensation for your child’s injuries. They will assess the full extent of your child’s damages, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, future medical needs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any other applicable damages. An attorney will fight to ensure your child receives the compensation they deserve.

If your child has suffered an injury while attending summer camp, the skilled personal injury lawyers at Philbrook Law Office are here to provide assistance. Our dedicated team can conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident, identify all responsible parties, construct a robust case against them, and vigorously pursue compensatory damages on your behalf.

With our extensive knowledge, resources, and courtroom experience, we are well-equipped to handle valid claims arising from summer camp injuries, especially those cases where it is evident that another party is accountable for causing harm to your child. Rest assured, we will tirelessly advocate for your rights and seek the justice and compensation your child deserves. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your options, call us at our offices in Battleground or Vancouver, Washington, or use our contact page.