Summer camp can be a memorable experience filled with fun activities and new friendships. Accidents can happen anywhere, however, and if your child sustains an injury while attending a summer camp in Indiana, it’s important to understand the legal implications and your rights as a parent.

Summer camp injury claims tend to be more complicated than other types of personal injury claims, primarily due to the liability waivers that parents are often required to sign. These waivers are intended to protect camp organizers against liability claims, making it challenging to hold them accountable for any harm caused to your child.

One crucial fact parents need to be aware of is that the state of Indiana does not inspect or have a licensing procedure for the majority of summer camps. Unlike child care facilities, which are regulated, most summer camps fall under the “90-day licensing exemption” policy. This exemption means that camps operating for fewer than 90 days per calendar year are exempt from inspection and licensure.

While the Indiana State Department of Health does conduct health and safety inspections for residential camps where children spend more than three days, these inspections often focus on basic requirements such as fire extinguishers, sanitation, and food preparation. They do not thoroughly review camp counselors’ policies and practices, camp activities, or the overall premises.

The lack of detailed inspections means that there is no comprehensive law in place to ensure the safety of children attending summer camps in Indiana. However, the state does require summer camps to file injury and illness reports with the Department of Health. This requirement aims to promote transparency and accountability in case of any incidents. Unfortunately, only a small number of camps comply with this reporting law, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of the system in protecting children.

So, what happens if your child is injured at a summer camp in Indiana? While the liability waiver you signed may complicate matters, it does not absolve the camp organizers of all responsibility. If the injury occurred due to negligence or misconduct on the part of the camp staff or inadequate supervision, you may still have legal options to pursue a personal injury claim.

To navigate the complexities of a summer camp injury claim, it is crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney specializing in child injuries. They can assess the circumstances surrounding your child’s injury, review the liability waiver you signed, and determine if there are grounds for legal action. They will help you understand your rights, guide you through the claims process, and advocate on behalf of your child’s best interests.

If your child has been injured at a day camp, sleep away camp or any other summertime activity, contact an experienced attorney at Hurst Limontes and we will be happy to review your case and discuss your options with you. We work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no cost to you unless we reach a settlement or jury verdict award on your behalf.

Call 317-636-0808 or email us for a FREE and confidential consultation.