Whether you’re looking for a way to make new friends or you’re a college athlete playing for your university, sports are a great way to stay healthy while having fun. While injuries are often an unfortunate part of the game, you may wonder if the harm you’ve suffered while playing in a sporting event warrants a lawsuit. Keep reading to learn more about when your injuries may indicate something more sinister, and discover how a Pikeville, KY personal injury lawyer can assist you through these challenging times.
If I’m Hurt While Participating in a Sporting Event, Can I Sue?
In most instances, injuries that occur while someone is participating in sports are not eligible for a lawsuit. This is because there is an inherent assumed risk of injury. Essentially, this means you understand that every time you play a sport, the risk of injury is there. Whether this is a concussion from diving the wrong way during a volleyball game or a broken finger from a pitch inside the plate, you run the risk every time you play.
However, not all injuries are a risk in the game. For example, your coach does not let you take a water break while playing football in extreme heat. As a result, you may become dehydrated or suffer heat stroke as a result. Thus, the injuries you suffered were not a risk of the game but rather a negligent coach. This also occurs if you were to suffer a mild concussion from being elbowed in the head during a basketball game. The concession does not warrant a lawsuit, but if your coach forces you to continue playing, your condition may worsen. This warrants legal action.
Aside from negligent coaching, equipment malfunctions can also lead to injuries. If you are a hockey player and get hit in the head with a puck, you may suffer severe injuries if your helmet does not absorb the blow like it claims it will. As such, you may be able to receive compensation.
How Can I Prove My Injuries Constitute a Lawsuit?
To help prove that your injuries were not simply a result of your participation in the activity, you’ll want to collect as much evidence as possible. This includes photos of the field or court conditions, and be sure to take down the information of witnesses who may have seen the accident occur. For example, if you were hit in the head and your coach makes you continue playing, the refs, teammates, and spectators may be able to speak to the fact that you were hit but forced to keep participating.
Though these injuries pose some challenges, it’s crucial to fight for the compensation you deserve when you endure unnecessary medical bills or pain and suffering due to another person’s malicious or negligent actions. If you need help, Shane Hall, Attorney at Law, PLLC, can fight for you. Contact us today to learn how we will fight for the damages you are entitled to if you are necessarily hurt while playing sports.
