College campuses, dormitories, and student unions will once again be bustling with activity as students return to campus for a new school year. With over 60 colleges and universities of various types in Indiana, the Hoosier State will host a large number of students from both in- and out-of-state. These students inherently face a variety of risks due to the unique environment associated with campus life. Unsafe transportation methods, increased alcohol/substance use, active lifestyles, and overcrowded conditions are just some factors that can lead to accidents and injuries. If you, your child, or a loved one have been injured on a college campus in Indiana, it’s important to understand your legal rights for obtaining compensation for injuries and damages.
As with other accident cases, the foundation of any personal injury claim will revolve around negligence. If an injury occured due to the negligent action(s) or inaction by the college or its staff, there may be grounds for a lawsuit. Product liability, insufficiently maintaining campus grounds, inadequate security, negligent hiring practices, environments that elevate risk of a sexual assault, and lack of food safety protocols are just a few examples that can lead to an injury or death on campus.
When filing a lawsuit against a college or university, there are important considerations and legal processes involved. If the school is a public entity, the concept of governmental immunity would apply. In Indiana, public schools and universities fall under this legal category. Governmental immunity shields public institutions from certain types of lawsuits, but this protection does not absolve them from all liability. Academic institutions have a legal responsibility to protect students from harm and if an injury has been sustained, you may, under certain circumstances, have grounds to pursue compensation for damages.
To determine whether you have a valid case, it is vital to consult with a personal injury lawyer experienced in navigating governmental immunity laws. Specific procedures and limitations for suing a government entity, including shorter deadlines for filing a claim and potential caps on damages, would apply. If an injury occurs at a private college or university, your case would follow a more traditional legal path.
A skilled attorney can assess the specifics of the case, help gather necessary evidence, and navigate the legal process to seek appropriate compensation for the injury. Overcoming potential challenges for plaintiffs, including the assumption of risk, the absence of foreseeability, and governmental immunity laws, will be vital for a successful outcome.
If you or a loved one have been injured on a college campus in Indiana, contact our law firm to discuss your case. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience fighting for our clients in any number of personal injury claims. 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 complete the form below for a FREE and confidential consultation.
