Can I Sue the Coach if My High Schooler Gets Injured?

 Posted on September 15, 2025 in Personal Injury

As the school year begins across Illinois, high school sports are once again in full swing. From Friday night football games to basketball programs that attract national rankings and college scouts, high school athletes can play at an intense level. 

Unfortunately, with that level of competition comes an increased risk of serious injuries. Parents are often left asking: If my child is hurt, who is responsible? If you are dealing with this situation, speak with a Schaumburg, IL personal injury lawyer to understand your rights.

Are High School Sports Injuries Just "Part of the Game"?

Sports carry obvious risks. These have degrees of severity, from sprains and fractures to concussions and brain injuries. Illinois law recognizes "assumption of risk." This means that by choosing to participate, athletes take on some of the risks of their sports. However, schools and coaches still have a legal duty of care to protect students from unnecessary dangers. When they do not, parents may have grounds to file a personal injury claim.

Do Liability Waivers Mean Parents Can’t Sue High Schools or Coaches?

Most high schools and athletic programs require parents to sign liability waivers. These waivers state that the school is not responsible if a child is injured while playing sports. While waivers limit some claims, they do not give schools or coaches total immunity. 

In Illinois, courts generally do not enforce waivers if the injury was caused by reckless or intentional conduct. For example, if a coach forced a student to keep playing with a known concussion, a waiver would not automatically block a claim.

What Counts as Negligence by a Coach or School?

Negligence means failing to use reasonable care under the circumstances. In the context of high school sports, negligence could include:

• Ignoring safety rules and regulations set by the Illinois High School Association (IHSA).

• Not having proper supervision during practice or games.

• Allowing games to happen on unsafe fields or with broken equipment.

• Pressuring injured students to continue playing.

When negligence leads to harm, the coach, athletic department, or school district could be responsible for the cost.

What Are the Legal Options for Parents of Injured High School Athletes?

Illinois law provides some protection for schools and their employees, but it does not excuse reckless behavior. Under the Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act (745 ILCS 10/3-108), schools and coaches are not typically liable if an injury happens because of poor supervision. However, they can be held responsible if they acted recklessly or knowingly ignored safety.

This distinction is important for parents considering a lawsuit. Proving simple negligence may not be enough, but if a coach or school acted recklessly, you may be able to sue. A lawyer can review your case and advise you on whether a lawsuit is possible.

Contact a Schaumburg, IL Personal Injury Lawyer for High School Athletes

If your high schooler was injured in a sports program, talk to a lawyer before you decide what to do next. Our firm offers free consultations, and our local attorneys have many decades of combined experience helping families recover after serious accidents.

We value our communities, and our team has secured millions of dollars in successful verdicts for clients. Call a Palatine, IL personal injury attorney with Newland & Newland, LLP at 847-797-8000 to learn how we can help protect your child’s future.