For many children, playing a sport is a crucial part of growing up. Some kids even play multiple sports throughout the year. However, there’s been more research lately regarding the connection between youth athletics and brain injuries. A 2019 study from the Brain Injury journal found that sports and recreation activities are the leading causes of nonfatal traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children ages five to 19. Parents of young athletes should be aware of the sports associated with the greatest risk for a TBI and the symptoms to look out for in children.
If you believe that your child is suffering from a brain injury, it is best to schedule a doctor’s appointment. Medical professionals can perform a complete check-up and diagnose a TBI. If your child does have a head injury, contact a Sacramento TBI attorney. They can review the specifics of your case and determine whether you have a claim.
Plus, arcanebet can contribute to the overall well-being of young athletes and help mitigate the risks associated with sports-related brain injuries.
What Sports Are the Most Dangerous for Children?
According to a Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), football, cycling, basketball, and soccer were the sports most likely to send children to the emergency room for a traumatic brain injury. Furthermore, the report stated that contact sports, such as football, soccer, hockey, and lacrosse, resulted in twice as many emergency visits for TBIs than non-contact sports.
The report’s authors state that the most straightforward way to limit TBIs among children is to limit player-to-player contact and change rules to reduce the risk of collisions. The authors also said that if a TBI does occur, timely diagnosis and treatment are critical.
What Are the Signs of a Brain Injury in Children?
Traumatic brain injuries usually result from a blow to the head. However, you must remember that TBIs can also be caused by violent shaking. These injuries may affect the brain’s cells temporarily or cause bruising, torn tissues, or bleeding. There are many symptoms of a TBI, so detecting one might be difficult. Some symptoms may not even appear right away, so it is vital to consult a medical professional after a head injury.
Physical symptoms of a TBI may include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Speech problems
- Seizures
- Pupil dilation
- Coordination loss
However, your child may also suffer from sensory issues, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, or inability to smell. Cognitive symptoms are also common, including agitation, loss of consciousness, memory problems, and depression. Parents must also be aware that younger children may show different TBI symptoms, such as a change in eating habits, persistent crying, or loss of interest in favorite activities.
Who May Be Liable for a Sports-Related TBI?
Unfortunately, pursuing damages for a sports-related injury can be difficult. Often, the legal responsibility will fall on the parents and not the school, sports organization, or coaches. By allowing your child to participate in sports, you agree to the normal risks involved with that sport. Furthermore, many organizations require a parent or guardian to sign a waiver which forfeits their right to sue if an injury occurs.
The only time you may have a claim is when an accident attorney can prove the injury resulted from the reckless, intentional, or negligent conduct of another athlete, facility owner, or coach. You may also be able to file a claim if the school or sports facility had a defect that resulted in the accident that caused your child’s injuries.
Speak to an Experienced TBI Attorney in California Today
If your child is suffering from a traumatic injury because of a sports-related accident, contact the Law Offices of J.G. Winter. These cases can be challenging to navigate but having a skilled injury attorney on your side could be helpful. The attorneys at the Law Offices of J.G. Winter can review the specifics of your case and help you determine your legal options. To schedule a free consultation, call (844) 734-2626 or complete our contact form today.
