Most Texans would be surprised to learn that the law in Texas is that the government can do no wrong. While, technically, the government can do wrong, it can’t be held accountable. This concept is known as “sovereign immunity” or “governmental immunity.”

This concept goes back to England when the King was the government, and the King was also presumed to be divine and the divine could do no wrong. In Texas, this legal concept has been codified in what is known as the Texas Tort Claims Act. This law sets out the limited instances wherein the government can be held accountable for its wrongdoing.

While this law should concern a lot of Texans, what should be more concerning is that the law provides its greatest immunity in an area where the citizens deserve the greatest protection–our schools.  Under the Texas Tort Claims Act, a school district or a school employee can only be liable for injuries to a child or other citizen if that injury arises out of the operation or abuse of a motor vehicle.  The only other exception is a very narrow exception for excessive punishment of a student.  Other than these two provisions, a school district and school employees are absolutely immune under State law for any injuries caused to students or parents.

So, if a shop student loses several fingers because the electric saw he was using did not have a proper guard on it, the school is not responsible for his injuries or medical expenses.  If a student is injured on the playground because the equipment has been improperly repaired there, is no liability; or if a student is injured because the floors or building or even bleachers have been improperly maintained, there is no remedy against the school.  In each and every one of these instances where a child is injured, the school has no legal responsibility to the child or to the parents for the child’s injuries or medical expenses.

If you have been injured as a result of the negligent conduct of a government official or an employee you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney promptly.  The Texas Tort Claims Act not only limits the government’s responsibility and the damages it has to pay but also puts very short time limits on reporting a claim and strict requirements on how that claim is reported. 

If you or a loved one have been injured, contact the personal injury lawyers of Roberts & Roberts.  The call costs you nothing, it can mean everything.

About The Author

Justin Roberts

Justin is a personal injury attorney at Roberts & Roberts. He focuses his practice on mass tort litigation, where he specializes in helping individuals who are harmed by recalled or unsafe pharmaceutical drugs and medical devices. Justin was named a “Rising Star” by Texas Super Lawyers in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, and has been recognized as a “Top 40 Under 40” attorney by The National Trial Lawyers, The American Institute of Trial Lawyers, and The American Academy of Attorneys. He is a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, a Fellow of The National Association of Distinguished Counsel, and a Member of the Texas Bar College honorary society.

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