Are You Ready for Some Football Litigation

Abstract

Concussions also known as traumatic brain injuries occur when your brain violently impacts the inside of your skull. These injuries lead to tort claims and product liability lawsuits against the NFL, high schools, colleges, helmet manufacturers and others involved in the game of football.

According to the National Center for Injury Prevention, it is estimated that 47% of all high school football players suffer a concussion each year. Every concussion is a brain injury.

The Michigan High School Athletic Assoc. provides a bevy of information on health and safety including insurance benefits. The return to activity form is to be used after an athlete is removed from and not returned to activity after exhibiting concussion symptoms. The MHSAA requires (1) Unconditional written authorization from a physician or nurse practitioner and (2) Consent from the student and parent /guardian. The medical examiner is the only person to approve the students return to unrestricted activity.

It is the responsibility of coaches, referees, parents and athletic directors to know the warning signs and symptoms of concussions. Symptoms can last for weeks or many months.

Keywords: Concussions, Brain Injury, Football Injuries, Traumatic Brain Injury