Is someone responsible for a student’s sports-related injury?

It happens too often.  Young people involved in school-sponsored activities are hurt in sporting events.  In particular, football players are susceptible to head injuries.  The results can range from concussions to traumatic brain injury to even death.  Cardiac arrest and heat-related illnesses are other areas of concern.  At times, the injuries are due to improper or insufficient supervision.  Certainly, an understanding of aftercare is also crucial.  The issue is so epidemic that federal legislators have introduced a bill to protect the lives of athletic youth.  New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez and Congressman Bill Pascrell are part of the team behind  SAFE PLAY Act for student athletes (Supporting Athletes, Families and Educators to Protect the Lives of Athletic Youth Act).  The bill calls for better education across all groups to lessen the amount of injuries suffered by those involved in organized sports.

New Jersey is no stranger to sports-related injuries.  Last year, the Montclair Board of Education agreed to settle with the estate of a young football player for $2.8 million.  Sixteen-year-old  Ryne Dougherty suffered a concussion during a football game. It was just 25 days later when the player sustained another blow to his head.  This one was fatal.  Apparently, the youth was still suffering from the concussion and the subsequent hit resulted in “second impact syndrome.”  Experts for the Dougherty family questioned the protocols in place concerning head injuries.  Their contention was that the school should have prevented Ryne from being back on the field.  His death could have been avoided.

The SAFE Act seeks to benefit overall youth safety in student athletes.  It is designed to educate athletes, school administrators and the community.  It does not only deal with head injuries.  It raises concerns about energy drinks.  It also discusses heat related problems.  It also relates to the instances of cardiac arrest in young people involved in sports.  The act seeks to establish guidelines that apply to all those involved in student athletic events.

At the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone, we deal with all types of personal injury.  We recognize that there are some risks to any physical activity.  However, we also have the experience and knowledge to evaluate cases concerning student sporting events.  If you or your loved one has been injured in an accident of this nature, please give us a call.  We can determine if you have a potential claim against another party.