My child was injured on a playground at school. Could I sue the school for neglect?

In the attached video, attorney Bryan Garrett discusses an important and often emotional question: Can you sue a school if your child is injured on a playground? In Oklahoma, the answer isn’t always simple. Schools are government entities and are typically protected under the Governmental Tort Claims Act—but there are exceptions. If a school fails in its duty to provide safe supervision or maintain a hazard-free environment, legal action may be possible.

Playgrounds should be a place of fun, not injury. Sadly, we’ve seen cases where negligence turned recess into a medical emergency. For example, in one recent case, a school allowed students to use a trampoline without following safety instructions from the manufacturer. The result? A young child suffered a severe leg fracture due to poor supervision. This kind of negligence opens the door for a potential lawsuit.

To succeed in a playground injury claim, you must prove the school was negligent. That means showing they had a responsibility to keep students safe, failed to meet that responsibility, and that failure caused the injury. These cases can be complex, especially because they involve strict government claim deadlines.

Time is critical. In Oklahoma, you may only have 90 to 180 days to notify the school of your intent to sue. If you miss that window, your claim could be denied—regardless of how serious the injury is.

If your child was hurt on school grounds, don’t wait. Contact an experienced playground injury lawyer today to protect your child’s rights and pursue the compensation your family deserves.

FAQs

Can I sue a school if my child was injured during recess?
Yes, but only if the injury was caused by negligence, such as lack of supervision or unsafe playground conditions.

What are common injuries that lead to playground injury lawsuits?
Common injuries include broken bones, concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and injuries caused by defective or poorly maintained equipment.

How long do I have to file a claim against a school in Oklahoma?
Generally, you must file a formal notice of claim within 90 to 180 days of the injury due to government immunity rules.

What evidence is needed for a playground injury claim?
Useful evidence includes medical records, witness statements, photos of the playground, school safety policies, and any available surveillance footage.