Childcare Injury Law at Harman Law
Charlotte | Huntersville | Hickory
Fighting to protect abused children
At Harman Law, we understand that the safety and well-being of your child are paramount. When accidents occur in childcare settings, the impact can be severe and far-reaching. That’s why our dedicated team is committed to supporting families affected by childcare injury in North Carolina.
What is Childcare Injury?
Childcare injuries can happen in various environments including daycares, preschools, and private homes. These injuries often result from negligence and can vary in severity from minor bruises to serious, life-altering conditions. Common types of injuries include:
- Falls: Injuries from falls could occur due to unsafe playground equipment or lack of proper supervision.
- Choking: Choking hazards are often present when small objects are left within reach of children or when food is not properly supervised.
- Poisoning: Accidental poisoning can happen if cleaning supplies or medications are left unsecured.
- Burns: Burns may occur from hot food, drinks, or improperly secured electrical appliances.
- Cuts and Bruises: Often a result of inadequate safety measures in play areas or poorly maintained facilities.
Common Causes of Childcare Injuries
Childcare injuries may be due to various factors that compromise child safety, including:
- Inadequate Staffing: Insufficient number of caregivers can lead to inadequate supervision and increased risk of accidents.
- Insufficient Training: Caregivers without proper training may not respond effectively to emergencies or recognize safety hazards.
- Failure to Adhere to Safety Regulations: Non-compliance with safety standards and regulations can create dangerous environments for children.
Psychological Impact of Childcare Injuries
The trauma from childcare injuries can extend beyond physical harm, affecting a child’s psychological and emotional health. Symptoms of trauma may include:
- Anxiety and Fear: Children may develop a persistent fear of the environment where the injury occurred or of people who resemble caregivers who were present.
- Behavioral Changes: Signs include increased clinginess, sleep disturbances, or regression in milestones like potty training or language skills.
- Withdrawal: A child may become less interactive with peers or adults and show diminished interest in play.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
North Carolina law mandates rigorous standards for childcare providers to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Parents have the right to expect that these standards are met. When they are not, legal action can be an appropriate response. Our team assists families by:
- Understanding the Law: We help you understand the specific legal standards that should have been followed and how they were violated.
- Navigating the Claims Process: From filing claims to negotiating settlements, we guide you through every step.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: We fight to get the full compensation you deserve for medical expenses, emotional distress, and other damages.
Preventative Measures for Parents
While legal recourse is available after an injury, prevention is crucial. We offer guidance on how parents can advocate for their child’s safety:
- Visit and Observe: Regularly visit the childcare facility unannounced at different times to see how children are being supervised.
- Ask Questions: Inquire about caregiver qualifications, staff-to-child ratios, and incident reporting procedures.
- Check for Safety Violations: Look up the facility’s history on state websites or request records of past inspections and violations.
Why Choose Harman Law?
- Community and Family Focused: We see our clients as family and are deeply invested in each child’s long-term welfare.
- Experienced Legal Representation: Our attorneys have extensive knowledge and experience in handling complex childcare injury cases.
- Dedication to Justice and Safety: We are committed to securing the best outcomes for our clients and improving community safety standards.
If your child has suffered an injury in a childcare setting, please contact Harman Law for a free consultation. We are here to protect your child’s future and contribute to creating a safer community for all children.
