Daycare Injuries: Understanding Your Rights as a Parent in Massachusetts

When parents drop their children off at daycare, they trust that their little ones will be in a safe and nurturing environment until it’s time for pickup. Unfortunately, accidents and injuries can occur in even the most reputable daycare centers in Massachusetts. If your child has been hurt, you deserve to understand your legal rights and what steps you can take to protect your family.

At Faneuf Law Group, LLC, our personal injury attorneys are committed to helping parents navigate these challenging situations with compassion and expertise.

Common Causes of Daycare Injuries

While minor scrapes and bumps are part of growing up, sometimes preventable injuries occur due to negligence. Common causes include:

  • Inadequate supervision. Children left unsupervised are at a greater risk of falling, choking, or aggressive-play injuries.

  • Unsafe premises. Broken equipment, slippery floors, and unsecured furniture can contribute to accidents.

  • Improper staff training. Employees who are not trained in safety procedures, CPR, or other emergency protocols can become a risk to children. 

  • Neglect or abuse. Tragically, children have suffered neglect and mistreatment at daycares across the country.

Injuries Can Be Covered By Insurance

Many parents hesitate to pursue a claim for their children’s injuries out of fear that it will be fruitless. Fortunately, many of the incidents that occur at daycare are covered by the daycare’s liability insurance. Therefore, parents should not be hesitant to bring a claim with a skilled attorney for these injuries.

Massachusetts Laws on Daycare Safety

Massachusetts daycare centers are regulated by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Licensed facilities must meet strict requirements regarding staff-to-child ratios, employee background checks, safety and sanitation standards, proper record-keeping, and incident reporting.

If a child is injured because a daycare fails to meet these standards, parents may have grounds to pursue legal action.

Your Rights as a Parent

If your child is injured at a Massachusetts daycare, you have the right to:

  • Request incident reports. Daycares are required to document and disclose injuries that occur under their care.

  • Seek medical treatment. Always prioritize your child’s health by obtaining immediate medical attention.

  • Hold the daycare accountable. If negligence played a role in your child’s injury, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and related costs.

  • Consult a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can investigate, gather evidence, and advocate for your child’s rights.

If your child is injured in a Massachusetts daycare:

  • Document the injury. Take photos and preserve medical records.

  • Report the incident. Make a written report to the daycare and request their official incident report.

  • Contact the Massachusetts EEC. If you suspect regulatory violations, the ECC would hold jurisdiction. 

  • Consult with a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney will guide you through your legal options.

How Faneuf Law Group Can Help

At Faneuf Law Group, we understand how helpless parents feel when their child is injured in a place that is supposed to be safe. Our legal team will investigate the injury, ensure that the daycare is compliant with state regulations, work with medical professionals to assess the level of harm, and pursue compensation for your child’s needs.

You don’t have to pursue justice alone. Our experienced attorneys are here to fight for you and your child. Daycare injuries can leave families overwhelmed, but you have rights under Massachusetts law. By taking steps to document the injuries and working with a personal injury attorney, you can hold negligent facilities accountable.

If your child has been injured at a Massachusetts daycare, contact Faneuf Law Group, LLC, today for a free consultation. Take the first step toward justice with Faneuf Law Group.