Laws vary from state to state but students who participate in school athletic activities (sports) are generally considered (under state law) to have assumed or agreed to the risks inherent in such activities. Student athletes are also often required to sign a form acknowledging the risks in the activity, assuming liability for their own potential personal injuries, and waiving any claims against the school, coaches, and school officials.

In rare situations in which student athletes are not properly supervised or provided with adequate protective equipment, schools and school officials may have liability for injuries caused by such negligence.

In addition to a student athlete's assumption of the risks inherent in participating in athletics, public schools are generally immune from liability under the legal doctrine of sovereign immunity that protects governmental entities—including public schools—from lawsuits and legal liability.

In Alabama, as in many states, student athletes are typically considered to have assumed the risks associated with participating in school sports. This assumption of risk is often formalized through a waiver or form that the student athlete signs, acknowledging the inherent dangers and agreeing not to hold the school or its representatives liable for personal injuries that may occur as a result of participation in these activities. However, if a student athlete is injured due to a lack of proper supervision or inadequate protective equipment, the school or officials may be held liable for negligence. Despite this, public schools in Alabama generally enjoy sovereign immunity, which shields them from many types of lawsuits and legal liabilities. This immunity can be waived in certain circumstances, but it provides a significant level of protection against claims arising from student athletic activities.