Collegiate athletes, no matter what sport they play, play at a level higher than most people can imagine. Playing at that level increases the risk of injury tremendously. In recent years, the general public and media have shined a bright light on one specific type of sports-related injury: concussions.
NCAA records show that between 2004 and 2009, over 30,000 athletes suffered concussions, also known as traumatic brain injuries, while playing a college sport. Many collegiate athletes suffered multiple concussions, and most were sent right back onto the playing field following their injury.
A survey conducted by the Washington Times demonstrated that as many as half of colleges did not require athletes to see a doctor after suffering a concussion, with the other half even going as far as allowing the athlete to return to the field the same day.
Prior to recent scrutiny, general practice required concussed players to see the school athletic trainer, who would perform basic tests, i.e. asking the player to count backwards from ten, and then trainers would promptly send the player back to the game.
This type of callous “examination” caused many athletes to suffer permanent brain trauma due to repetitive hear injury. Dealing with the lasting effects of these injuries, a number of NCAA athletes filed lawsuits claiming the NCAA negligently failed to protect them following recurrent concussions.
Health risks associated with traumatic head injuries include:
- Frequent headaches
- Dizziness
- Poor memory
- Lack of concentration
- Inability to sleep
- Memory problems
- Seizures
- Alzheimer’s and Dementia
In a recent settlement, the NCAA agreed to set aside a $70 million-dollar fund to help current and former athletes who have suffered traumatic brain injuries while playing NCAA sports. This settlement also included an array of policy changes regarding the medical care provided to collegiate athletes.
This class action lawsuit did not include any compensation for players who have suffered head injuries; however, athletes still have standing to file lawsuits individually against the NCAA and their university, if they feel their safety has been compromised.
If you or someone you love suffered a traumatic brain injury or concussion while playing sports in college, you have to call me immediately at 1 (800) 556-4769. The injury may not seem serious, but the effects could last a lifetime.
As your Catastrophic Injury lawyer, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over 33 years, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus & Cincinnati, Ohio.” You can reach Tim by email at tmisny@misnylaw.com or call at 1 (800) 556-4769.
