Question 1

Who is liable when a child is injured at school in Israel?

Accepted Answer

The State of Israel (through the Ministry of Education) and the local authority are jointly responsible for the safety of pupils at school. Schools and teachers owe pupils a duty of care — to maintain safe premises and equipment, to provide adequate supervision, and to prevent foreseeable harm. Where this duty is breached and a child is injured, the state bears liability.

Question 2

Does NII cover school accidents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. School accidents are classified as work accidents (teunat avoda) for NII purposes — pupils are treated as 'workers' for this purpose. On a school accident, an NII claim can be filed for medical treatment costs and, where permanent disability results, a disability pension. The NII claim does not prevent a parallel civil claim against the school or state.

Question 3

What time limits apply to school accident claims?

Accepted Answer

For the NII claim, the accident must be reported within 12 months. For the civil claim against the state, a 60-day notice requirement under the State Liability Law applies — and a claim must be filed within 7 years (3 years for road accidents). For minor claimants, the limitation period is suspended until they reach age 18.

Question 4

My child was injured on a school trip — who is responsible?

Accepted Answer

School trips are an extension of the school environment — the school and state remain responsible for supervision and safety during organised activities. Failure to conduct an adequate risk assessment, provide sufficient supervision, or respond appropriately to a known hazard during a trip can establish liability.

Question 5

My child was hurt by another pupil at school — can I claim?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in appropriate cases. The school has a duty to prevent foreseeable pupil-on-pupil violence — particularly where a pattern of bullying was known or should have been known to staff. Failure to supervise adequately or to act on prior warnings of aggression can give rise to a claim against the school, in addition to any claim against the child responsible (or their parents).

Question 6

What compensation can be claimed for a school accident injury?

Accepted Answer

Claims for school accident injuries can include: medical expenses, pain and suffering, past and future lost earning capacity (calculated on the child's projected future earnings), NII disability pension, and psychological harm. For serious injuries with permanent consequences, the compensation can be very significant — particularly given the child's full working life ahead.

School Accident Claims in Israel

State and School Liability for Pupil Injuries

Frequently Asked Questions

Child Injured at School?