What if the school resource officer fractured your child’s arm during an altercation with another student?
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What if the school resource officer fractured your child’s arm during an altercation with another student?
My child was involved in a school fight. A student had been threatening her all day. Teachers were made aware and other students were asked to escort my daughter to her classes. During forth
period the little girl followed through with her threat. She and my daughter got into a fight. The school resource officer was called. He slammed my child down fracturing her arm.
Asked on November 17, 2016 under Personal Injury, North Carolina
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
It depends on whether, under the circumstances, he was negligent, or unreasonably careless, in separating the children or restraining your daughter, or whether he acted reasonably--essentially used reasonable force--and the fact that your daughter was injured was an unfortunate accident, but not his fault.
If he used reasonable force and acted reasonably under the circumstances, given what was happening, the age and size of the girls, etc. then neither he nor the school would be liable. However, if he acted unreasonably or used excessive fault, then both he and the school could be liable, such as for medical costs, lost wages if you have missed work caring for your daughter, potentially some amount for pain and suffering, etc. In this event, if neither he nor the school offers you compensation voluntarily, you could sue them for the money.
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