When a child is injured in an accident, the emotional and legal consequences can be overwhelming. For families in California, understanding what makes a child injury case legally unique is essential to navigating the legal system and protecting your child’s rights.
From longer filing windows to specialized settlement requirements, these cases are treated differently under the law. If your child has been hurt, knowing these differences can empower you to take the right steps.
In this blog, we’ll explore what sets these cases apart—and why they deserve careful attention.
Why Are Child Injury Cases Treated Differently?
Legal Protections for Children in California
Children are considered legally incapable of making decisions about their welfare, which means the law offers additional protections when it comes to child injury claims. Whether it’s a case of playground accidents, pedestrian accidents, or school injuries, courts take extra steps to ensure the child’s best interests are upheld.
These legal distinctions include:
- Extended statute of limitations
- Court-supervised settlements
- Different methods of calculating damages
Let’s break each of these down.
1. Statute of Limitations for Minors
In most personal injury cases in California, the statute of limitations is two years. However, for child injury cases, the rules are more flexible. Generally, the time limit is “tolled” (paused) until the child turns 18.
Legal Term | Explanation |
Statute of Limitations | The deadline for filing a lawsuit in court. |
Tolling | A legal delay of the time frame due to the child’s age or circumstances. |
18th Birthday Rule | The clock for the statute of limitations typically starts on the child’s 18th birthday. |
This means that parents or guardians may file a personal injury claim on the child’s behalf anytime before the child turns 18, and the child has two more years to take legal action independently.
However, there are exceptions. Different time limits may apply in cases involving public entities. It is highly recommended that you consult with child injury lawyers in Los Angeles.
2. Court-Supervised Settlements
When a child receives financial compensation from a settlement, the court must approve the amount and how it is handled.
Key Points:
- Settlements over $5,000 must be reviewed and approved by a judge.
- Funds are often held in a blocked account or structured settlement until the child turns 18.
- A guardian ad litem (court-appointed advocate) may be assigned to protect the child’s interests.
This helps prevent the misuse of funds and ensures the settlement serves the long-term well-being of the injured child.
3. Long-Term Damages in Child Injury Cases
Children’s injuries can have life-altering consequences, especially in cases involving traumatic brain injury or unintentional injuries.
Factors courts consider:
- Future medical care
- Educational needs
- Loss of earning capacity
- Psychological impacts
Child injury attorneys often work with medical experts and economists to project these long-term costs.
Emotional Distress & CACI 1621: What If You Witnessed Your Child’s Injury?
California law acknowledges that bystanders, especially parents, may suffer profound emotional distress after witnessing a child’s injury. According to CACI 1621, a person can sue for damages even without physical harm if:
- The child was hurt because of the defendant’s careless actions.
- The parent was there when it happened.
- They knew right away that their child was being harmed.
- Witnessing the event caused the parent deep emotional pain.
- The defendant’s behavior played a major role in that suffering.
This principle strengthens legal action against a negligent party and can be vital to a family’s recovery.
What Should Parents in Los Angeles Do After a Child Injury?
If your child was injured in an accident—whether on Sunset Boulevard, at a local LA school, or during a neighborhood event—here are critical steps to follow:
✅Actions to Take
- Seek medical care immediately – even if injuries seem minor.
- Document everything – take photos, get names of witnesses.
- File incident reports, especially regarding school injuries or playground accidents.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in child injury claims.
Navigating the applicable statute, assessing long-term impact, and working toward maximum compensation are complex tasks best handled by experienced legal professionals. Don’t leave your child’s future up to chance.
Common Questions on Child Injury Claims in CA
Most child injury cases allow up to two years after the child turns 18, but exceptions may apply.
Yes. A judge must approve settlements above $5,000 to protect the child’s interests.
Damages include current and future medical bills, lost future income, and pain and suffering.
Yes. California’s comparative fault law considers a child’s actions, age, and understanding. Compensation may still be available if the child is partially at fault.
As soon as possible, preserve evidence and protect your rights. In California, a child’s personal injury claim is typically due within two years after they turn 18. Missing this deadline could prevent you from seeking compensation entirely.
Secure the Compensation Your Child Deserves
Childhood injuries can affect your child’s health, future, and emotional well-being. If your child has suffered due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone. At our firm, our experienced child injury lawyers in Los Angeles are here to help you secure justice, peace of mind, and the financial compensation your family deserves.
Get a free consultation today. Let’s talk about your legal options—and how we can help keep children safe across Los Angeles, CA.
