Concussions in Youth Sports

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in which the brain jerks violently inside the skull after a sudden jolt or blow, and concussions are unfortunately common in our sport of American football; boxing, ice hockey, and lacrosse also pose high risks. Children and teenagers participating in these sports are especially prone to concussions, as their brains are still developing well into their twenties, and those who return to a sport before their concussion has fully healed are at high risk for Second Impact Syndrome (SIS), which involves rapid swelling of the brain and can be deadly.

The symptoms of concussions are divided into four categories by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

– Physical – Headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, lethargy, sensitivity to light and/or sound
– Thinking/memory – Trouble concentrating, sluggishness, memory loss
– Emotional – Irritability, mood swings, sadness, increased anxiety
– Sleep – Trouble falling asleep, insomnia or hypersomnia

Prompt medical attention for a concussion, even a mild one, is critical to prevent complications from the first or a second injury. These complications may include dizziness, headaches, vertigo, and even epilepsy.
Sanctioning groups and participating coaches for youth sports are responsible for making these activities as safe as possible through close supervision, coaching/training, and providing proper protective equipment.

When children are injured not necessarily due to the sport itself, but due to the negligence of a person or entity responsible for overseeing a sporting activity (be it a coach, school, district, municipality, or other sanctioning group), they may be eligible for compensation for injuries, medical bills, rehabilitation, and more through a personal injury claim.

If your child has been injured in a sporting activity due to negligence, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.