Why Educators Legal Liability is Essential for Teachers

When students step into a classroom, their teacher is liable for them. If anything should happen to a child while in the care of their teacher, there is a good chance that the educator themselves could face a lawsuit. Unfortunately, lawsuits against teachers have been increasing in the past 10 years, according to an American Tort Reform Association survey. The survey also indicated that nearly a third of all high school principals in the U.S. have been involved in a suit in the past two years, whereas a decade ago just 9% of principals were involved in lawsuits.

This opens the door to a conversation that is very important to have with educators. Teachers are typically ill-prepared for the financial loss, attorney fees, etc. that comes along with a litigation. They could be held liable for a number of actions, including:

• Any injury that a student incurs under their supervision.
• Using improper methods to teach their students.
• Not passing students on to the next grade.
• Violating students’ civil rights.
• Accusations of physical abuse.
• Failure to Educate.

Even in cases where the allegations are false, teachers still have to pay legal defense fees, which could not only wipe out their finances, but can hurt the educational institute that they work for. Educators Legal Liability protects both these entities, plus protects against claims made against the administrators, employees, and staff members of both schools and colleges.

At Professional Governmental Underwriters, Inc. we understand the increasing number of risks that educators face. Our comprehensive insurance coverages include Educators Legal Liability to cover defense costs that educators may face, prior acts, and more. Please contact us today for more information.