Getting a call that your child was injured at college is every parent’s nightmare. Whether your student attends Saint Cloud State University, SCTCC, St. John’s University or any other college, knowing what to do right away protects their health and legal rights.
First determine if it’s an emergency
If your student suffers a serious injury—or you feel unsure—tell them to call 911 or campus emergency services immediately. When they call, they should give clear details:
- Location: Name the exact building or area on campus.
- Nature of the injury: Describe what happened and how severe it looks.
- Hazards: Mention any ongoing dangers such as fire, chemicals or unsafe conditions.
Sharing accurate information helps emergency responders find your student quickly and record what happened correctly.
If it’s not an emergency
Even small injuries need medical attention. Tell your student to visit a healthcare provider for an exam. You can help by scheduling follow-up appointments and confirming their insurance coverage. Common campus injuries include:
- Slip and fall accidents: Wet floors, icy walkways or uneven pavement.
- Dorm accidents: Burns, electric shocks or falls from unsafe setups.
- Sports or recreation injuries: Faulty gym equipment or poor supervision.
- Assault or hazing: Negligent security or unsafe student activities.
Record every injury, even the minor ones. Detailed records help prove what happened if safety or liability questions come up later.
Preparing for future emergencies
When your student turns 18, privacy laws limit what you can access. Schools and healthcare providers can’t share medical details without your student’s consent. Plan ahead so you can stay involved during a crisis:
- Creating a medical power of attorney: Allows you to make health decisions if your student can’t.
- Keeping emergency forms on file: Provides quick access to insurance and allergy information.
- Setting a communication plan: Clarifies who the school should contact in an emergency.
These steps make coordination easier between you, campus staff and medical providers.
What parents can also do
If you already have a medical power of attorney, you can coordinate care and access records more easily after a serious injury. You may want to contact a personal injury attorney after your student gets medical treatment. The lawyer can explain whether the school or another party may be responsible and guide you on what evidence to preserve.