Sports injuries are a significant concern for teenagers, especially when it comes to brain injuries. With the increasing awareness of the long-term effects of concussions and other brain injuries, parents need to understand their legal options if their child sustains a brain injury while participating in sports. This blog will explore whether you can seek compensation for your teenager’s sports brain injury, how to do so, and what factors may impact your case.
At Jassim Law, we understand how crucial it is to act quickly in these situations. If your teenager has suffered a sports-related brain injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Let us guide you through the legal process with the care and attention you need.
Parents and children alike often incorrectly believe that being injured is just part of the sport. While there is truth to this, when someone suffers a serious potentially life altering injury the circumstances leading up to the injury must be examined. For example, when coaches, teachers, or supervising adults unreasonably increase the inherent risks of the sport, there can be liability. This is often referred to as “gross negligence.”
With our experience and dedication, we work to hold those responsible accountable and secure the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, future care, and any other related losses.
What to Know About Sports Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can often be hard to spot, especially if symptoms don’t appear immediately or appear on scans such as x-rays or CT Scans. Look for signs like headaches, dizziness, confusion, altered consciousness, loss of consciousness, or changes in behavior.
If you notice any of these symptoms after a sports-related incident, it’s important to seek medical attention right away and prevent further participation. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in your child’s recovery.
Sports brain injuries can vary in severity and type. Common types include:
- Concussions: A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory issues.
- Second Impact Syndrome (SIS): This occurs when a second concussion is sustained before the first one has healed, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.
- Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): A progressive degenerative disease found in individuals with a history of repetitive brain trauma. Symptoms can include memory loss, mood swings, and cognitive decline.
Brain injuries in sports can result from various factors, including:
- Direct Impact: A direct hit to the head or body.
- Accidental Collisions: Unintentional clashes with other players or objects.
- Inadequate Protective Gear: Poorly fitting or insufficient headgear.
Prompt medical evaluation is essential not only for immediate care but also to assess the potential for long-term effects.
Seeking Compensation for a Sports Brain Injury
If your teenager suffers a brain injury due to a sports-related accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. If the injury resulted from inadequate supervision, improper training, or lack of safety measures, you might consider:
- Legal Action Against the School: Schools have a duty to provide a safe environment for students. If they fail in this duty, they could be held liable. The legal viability of the claim varies depending on the sport, whether the injury occurred during an athletics team event, a PE Class, or other activity. The legal duties, standards, and defenses vary depending on how and when the injury happened.
- Suing Sports Organizations: Leagues or clubs that do not adhere to safety standards might also be held accountable. For example, did the coach unreasonably increase or alter the inherent risks of a sport? Did the coach require or encourage younger children to play a risky sport against larger and older children? Was the recommended protective gear used? These can all be factors that play into whether there is a legal claim.
The extent of the brain injury will influence the amount of compensation you may receive. More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation due to the long-term effects and medical costs. Compensation may also consider how the injury affects your teenager’s daily life, such as if they are having difficulty in school, need special accommodations, or will suffer long-term effects on career opportunities and personal development.
The strength of your case depends on the quality of evidence you provide. This may include:
- Detailed medical records from healthcare professionals.
- Statements from coaches, teammates, and other witnesses.
- Evaluations from medical and legal experts.
Seeking compensation for your teenager’s sports brain injury involves understanding the types of injuries, exploring legal options, and considering factors that impact your claim. By taking the right steps and consulting with legal professionals, you can navigate the complexities of seeking compensation and ensure your teenager receives the necessary support and justice for their injury.
Reach Out to Jassim Law
At Jassim Law, we understand the urgency and complexity involved in sports-related brain injuries. We have successfully held schools, youth sports, and recreational activity vendors accountable – and therefore made these activities safer for kids in our community.
Our dedicated team is here to guide you through the legal process with the expertise and care you need. We are committed to holding those responsible accountable and securing the necessary compensation for medical expenses, future care, and other related losses. Attorney Pajman Jassim, recognized as a SuperLawyer from 2017 to 2024, offers personalized and knowledgeable support in every case.
If your teenager has suffered a sports brain injury, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact us today to ensure your child receives the justice and support they deserve. Reach out at (619) 630-2680 or visit our contact form.