Accidental Sports & Recreational Injuries
With the days getting longer and spring right around the corner, many parents will be enrolling their children in sports and recreational activities. While these provide an excellent opportunity for fun and physical fitness, they also increase the likelihood of your child suffering from accidental injuries. Understanding the potential risks and taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your child has a positive experience, helping to avoid injuries that could have serious ramifications.
Common Types of Children’s Sports and Recreational Injuries
Of the nearly 30 million children in the U.S. who participate in school or community sponsored youth sports and recreational activities, Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that roughly one out of every ten will suffer an injury that will sideline them for the year. Injuries may be caused either by falling, being hit by a ball, being tackled by other players, or coming into contact with hard surfaces. Among the most common types of injuries to occur include:
- Muscle and tendon strains, sprains, and tears
- Broken bones and dislocated joints
- Back injuries, including damage to discs, vertebrae, or the spinal column
- Head injuries, including concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
In addition to the above, players can be subject to dehydration and overexertion, which can have a serious impact on your child’s health. In many cases, serious injuries can be prevented by following a few simple safety precautions.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Safety Tips To Prevent Youth Sports Injuries
You can help protect your children against potentially serious and disabling injuries by making sure the appropriate safety rules are adhered to. Depending on the activity,
Kids Health recommends the following:
- Use the proper safety equipment, including helmets, goggles, shoes, and protective pads
- Sports fields and facilities should be well maintained and use the proper ground covers and surfaces for play
- Adults should be screened, trained, and experienced in coaching as well as first aid
- Training should be provided to ensure children know the proper procedures and rules of play
- There should be plenty of warm up time and conditioning exercises to ensure the child’s body is prepared
- Water and frequent break times should be provided as needed
When an injury does occur, it is important for the child to be removed from play. They should not resume the activity until cleared to do so by their doctor. Schools, recreational facilities, coaches and staff who fail to adhere to any of the above guidelines could be held legally liable if an injury occurs.
Our South Carolina Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help
If your child has suffered a serious injury while engaging in sports and recreational activities, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our personal injury attorneys understand how these injuries can permanently impact your child’s health. We can advise you on how to hold responsible parties accountable so that you can get the compensation
your child needs to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
