Navigating the aftermath of a sports injury can be a challenge, particularly when you encounter unfair treatment from the insurance company or others responsible for your well-being. In 2022, emergency departments treated 3.6 million people for injuries resulting from sports activities and exercise equipment. After a sports injury, getting back on the field or court is a priority for recreational and professional athletes alike. Understanding the challenges you may face can help you prepare for and overcome them, so you can get back in the game.
Assumption of Risk vs. Negligence in Sports
Playing sports, whether individually or as a team, indoors or outdoors, comes with some risk of injury. As with other activities in our daily lives, however, there is a difference between getting hurt in the normal course of the game and suffering an injury because of someone else’s negligence.
Imagine spraining your ankle while diving for a loose ball during a basketball game. Suffering an injury in this way is an inherent risk of playing the sport. However, if you were running down the court and another player tackled you from behind with excessive force, that could be considered negligence on the part of the other player.
Identifying Liable Parties
Depending on the cause of your injury and other factors, various parties may have liability for sports-related injuries. A personal injury lawyer may help you identify these parties and take steps to hold them financially responsible.
Those who may be liable for sports injuries include:
- Other athletes
- Coaches and trainers
- Schools and leagues
- Equipment manufacturers
- Facility owners
Personal injury laws vary from one state to the next, and injuries while playing sports are an intrinsic risk. However, if you suffered injury while participating in a sports activity due to someone else’s negligence, you may seek to hold that party liable.
Challenges After a Sports Injury
The road to recovery after a sports injury is not always smooth. You may face challenges ranging from getting the care you need to denials of coverage for your care. When struggling with the physical and emotional fallout of an injury, such difficulties can add further foul to an already
Delays or Denials of Coverage
It may seem that getting insurance coverage should be a simple process of filing the necessary forms. However, that’s not always the case. To reduce or delay their payouts, insurance companies may argue an injury was not related to the sport, was pre-existing, or is not covered by the policy.
Difficulty Obtaining the Necessary Treatment
Insurance companies sometimes limit coverage for certain specialists or treatments. In the aftermath of a sports injury, this can create hurdles in getting the care you need. For instance, some insurance companies require prior authorizations for procedures, testing, or imaging, which can delay or impede the treatment of your condition.
Disputes Over the Injury Cause
Disputes sometimes arise regarding the cause or severity of the injury. Insurance companies may try to downplay the effects of the injury, or argue that it was not caused by the sports activity to limit their payout.
Unfair fights with the insurance company can keep you sidelined after a sports injury, but they don’t have to. Understanding your rights, keeping documentation related to the incident, and working with a personal injury lawyer can help overcome legal challenges in your path to recovery.
Also Read: The Cost-Effective Solution: Artificial Turf for Sports Fields
