CHILD INJURY ATTORNEYS IN MAUI, HAWAII

When it comes to the safety and well-being of your children, there is nothing more important. However, accidents happen, and the aftermath can be a trying time for any family.  

At Ranken, Shnider & Taylor, Attorneys at Law, located in Maui, Hawaii, our team is committed to supporting families through such difficult periods. If your child has been injured in an accident, it’s essential you understand your rights, options, and next steps. Protect your child’s future and fight for the compensation you deserve. We are here for you. 

Understanding Child Injury Claims

Child injury claims encompass a wide range of legal cases that arise when a child is injured due to someone else's negligence or intentional harm. These cases can be particularly emotional and legally challenging, given the young age and vulnerability of the victim. Our law firm understands the delicacy of these situations and is here to offer our support and legal guidance.

Types of Cases We Handle 

Our experience covers a broad spectrum of child injury cases, including but not limited to: 

• Playground accidents: Often occurring due to poorly maintained equipment or lack of supervision. 

• School injuries: These can happen in various situations, including during sports activities, in classrooms, or on school premises due to negligence. 

• Automobile accidents: Unfortunately, children are not immune to the dangers of the road, whether as passengers or pedestrians. 

• Dog bites: Incidents involving animal attacks can be traumatic and may require specific legal action. 

• Defective products: Toys, furniture, and even children's medication can cause harm if they are not properly designed, manufactured, or labeled. 

In each of these cases, our team diligently works to uncover the facts, determine liability, and pursue the justice that your child and family deserve. 

What to Do If Your Child Has Been Injured 

The moments after your child have been injured can be chaotic and overwhelming. However, taking certain steps can be crucial for their health and any future legal claim: 

1. Seek medical attention. The health and safety of your child should always come first. Ensure they receive the necessary medical care and keep detailed records of their treatment. 

2. Document everything. Take photos of the injuries and the location where the accident occurred. Write down everything you remember about the event and gather contact information from any witnesses. 

3. Report the incident. If the injury occurred on property owned by someone else, such as a school or playground, ensure the incident is officially reported and documented. 

4. Consult with our attorneys. Before going trough the insurance claims process or accepting any settlements, consult with our team to explore your legal options and protect your rights. 

How Are Child Injuries Different From Injuries That Happen to an Adult? 

Child injuries differ from those that happen to adults in several significant ways, primarily due to the physical and developmental differences between children and adults. Children are not just small adults; their bodies are still growing, making them more susceptible to certain types of injuries and affecting the way those injuries heal.  

For instance, a child’s brain is still developing, which means a head injury can have more profound and long-lasting effects compared to an adult. Additionally, children may not be able to communicate the extent of their pain or discomfort as clearly as an adult, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging. 

Legally, the approach to child injury claims also differs. Children cannot file legal claims themselves, requiring a parent or guardian to act on their behalf. The statutes of limitations for injuries to children may also differ, often allowing more time to file a claim compared to adult personal injury cases.  

Furthermore, courts and legal representations take into account the future impact of the injury on the child’s life, including long-term medical care, the need for rehabilitation, and how the injury may affect their learning and development. 

At Ranken, Shnider & Taylor, Attorneys at Law, our team of experienced attorneys recognize these differences and have the experience and knowledge to navigate the nature of child injury claims, ensuring that your child’s rights and future are diligently protected. 

What Compensation Can You Receive for a Child Injury?

In child injury cases, compensation can vary greatly depending on the specifics of the case. Generally, the compensation awarded may cover: 

• Medical expenses: Including past, present, and future costs related to the injury. 

• Pain and suffering: This can compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced by your child. 

• Loss of enjoyment of life: If the injuries prevent your child from enjoying their usual activities or hobbies. 

• Punitive damages: In cases of egregious negligence or intentional harm, additional compensation may be awarded. 

Our firm is dedicated to helping families receive the maximum compensation possible to support their child’s recovery and future well-being. 

How long do I have to file a child injury claim in Hawaii? 

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Hawaii is generally two years from the date of the incident.

However, there are exceptions, especially in cases involving minors. If a child was injured, the statute of limitations may also be different—in general, that two-year period will not start until the child has reached the age of majority, which typically happens at age 18. Our team can provide specific guidance based on the details of your case. 

What if my child was partially at fault for the accident? 

Hawaii operates under a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning compensation can still be sought if your child was less than 51% at fault for the accident. The total compensation may be reduced by the child’s percentage of fault.