Lawsuit seeks medical fund for former collegiate players

There have been a lot of reports recently surrounding the effects of head injuries suffered by NFL players. Most people now know that repeated collisions and tackles can cause severe concussions, which can lead to permanent disabilities later in life. This is something that medical professionals have known for quite some time. Another high profile class action lawsuit—this time involving three former college football players—alleges that they are enduring the debilitating effects of brain trauma that could have been prevented by the NCAA.

In the lawsuit, the three claim that they each received head trauma on numerous occasions while playing collegiate football. They now suffer from intense headaches, poor memory, ear ringing and sleep difficulties. They feel that the NCAA was negligent for decades and did not protect them while they participated in football programs at different institutions. They lawsuit also claims that the NCAA did not educate its players regarding the risks associated with concussions, nor did they properly diagnose and treat the players’ brain injuries. The three former players hope that the lawsuit will establish a fund for medical testing and monitoring of former collegiate football players.

Traumatic brain injuries are not limited to professional or collegiate level football players. Pennsylvania youth that participate in almost any sport—from soccer to cheerleading to wrestling—are especially susceptible to concussions but are often misdiagnosed. There are distinct differences for treating sport related concussions in younger players and if not treated properly, can lead to even more serious neurological problems. If you believe that your child did not receive adequate medical care after sustaining a concussion or brain trauma, you may want to speak with an attorney. Legal help may be available to help you pay for medical expenses and long-term care relating to the injury.

Source: Washington Post, “3 former football players sue NCAA over failure to prevent, diagnose and treat brain injuries,” Associated Press, Sep. 4, 2013.