With football season now upon us, George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers would like to wish players and athletes in all sports a safe and fun season! As we’ve discussed in previous blogs, football season can help remind us all about the dangers of concussion injuries and the importance of taking steps to keep youth athletes safe. So far we’ve discussed ways to recognize concussions and react to head injuries. In this blog, we’ll provide helpful tips for parents and coaches who want to reduce concussion risks.
According to an NFL-funded report, more than 250,000 concussions for athletes under the age of 19 were reported in U.S. emergency rooms in 2009. Many concussions are never reported. In an attempt to reduce high rates of concussions in youth sports, lawmakers have created new laws to protect young athletes. Parents and coaches can also do their part in helping young players reduce risks for concussions and other injuries.
- Know how to recognize and respond – Although concussions can range in severity, all forms of brain injury have the potential to cause serious disabilities and impairments when left untreated, or when athletes continue to play through their symptoms. This is why it is so important to know how to recognize a concussion and what steps to take after a concussion is suspected.
- Wear safety equipment – No safety equipment or technology will fully eliminate the risk of concussion, but they can reduce risks. Make sure athletes always wear the proper safety equipment during practice and games, that the equipment fits correctly, and that the equipment is always well-maintained.
- Make sure athletes follow rules and safety techniques – Making sure young athletes know the rules of play and practice good sportsmanship can help keep everyone safe. Teaching proper safety techniques is also important. In football, for example, parents and coaches can practice “Head’s Up” football, which teaches young players to never lower their head during a hit.
- Check on concussion policies – Some schools and cities have adopted concussion policies in youth sports, including strict return-to-play policies. Parents and coaches can do their part to keep players safe by making sure everyone knows these rules, or by working with local officials and organization to ensure that schools and leagues have concussion policies in place.
If you would like more information about athlete injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and how the South Carolina personal injury lawyers at our firm can help after a preventable accident, give our legal team a call! We offer FREE case reviews to residents throughout the state!
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