In recent years, increasing attention has been devoted to the problem of concussions among professional athletes, specifically among football, hockey, and soccer players. The issue has caused many of these sports to come under intense scrutiny, with many professional leagues instituting new safety protocols and rules designed to reduce athletes’ risk of sustaining a concussion during play.
The question of legal liability for the effects of concussions has been a difficult issue, with sports officials arguing that athletes assume the risk of injury when they decide to play sports professionally. In light of the recent NFL settlement offer, in which the league offered to pay athletes up to $5 million for severe brain trauma, many observers expect more and more athletes to be able to obtain compensation for injuries they sustained in the course of professional play.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury, or TBI. Many athletes have referred to concussions as "getting your bell rung" or "getting knocked out" in the past. These injuries occur when a jolt or blow to the head results in a disruption of normal brain function. In some cases, a concussion may even occur in the absence of contact if the head snaps forwards or backwards on the neck with sufficient force.
Proper Identification Of Concussions
Properly identifying and treating a sport-related concussion is extremely important in minimizing the potential long-term effects of these injuries. All professional sports impose some sort of concussion identification system along with a protocol to be followed in the event that a concussion has occurred. Common symptoms of concussions include the following:
- Dizziness;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Vision problems;
- Ringing in the ear;
- Tiredness;
- Amnesia;
- Disorientation;
- Depression;
- Sensitivity to light or sound.
Long-term Effects Of Multiple Concussions
Recent research has shed light upon the fact that multiple concussions can have serious adverse effects, some of which may not become apparent for years after the initial injury has taken place. For example, multiple concussions in athletes have been linked to degenerative brain conditions such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), early onset dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, and Alzheimer’s. These issues can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and even their ability to live independently. As a result, individuals who have developed these kinds of conditions as a result of multiple concussions often are able to recover significant compensation from the party responsible for their injuries.
An Experienced Sports Injury Attorney Can Help You
If you or someone you love has experienced the effects of one or multiple concussions sustained during sports, you should consult with the proper medical professionals and receive any needed treatment.
After your brain health is stabilized, you should then discuss your situation with an experienced sports injury lawyer who fully understands the nature of brain injuries. At The Casper Firm in Baltimore, we have assisted many people with cases related to concussions and other traumatic brain injuries and work tirelessly to ensure that each client we represent obtains the full value of their claim. To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, call our office today at 888-387-3878.
