Playing sports is something that many people do to relieve stress, make friends, or stay healthy. Unfortunately, injuries are often a part of the game. However, when there are more sinister intentions behind your injury, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. Keep reading to learn when to file a lawsuit and how personal injury attorneys in Baltimore County can help you recover the compensation you may be entitled to when you are hurt in a sporting event.
Can I Sue if I’m Injured While Playing in a Sporting Event?
In most instances, injuries that occur when you are participating in a sporting event are unfortunately a part of the game. Whether you land funny after a jump shot in basketball or dive incorrectly while going after a volleyball, you may suffer unfortunate damage. Your injury is also a part of the game if you are a softball catcher injured when the batter swings the bat. None of these situations would constitute a lawsuit. This is because you likely need to sign a waiver saying you understand the assumption of risk that is inherently connected when participating in an organized sporting event.
However, there may be injuries that you can suffer even if you signed a waiver. This includes negligent coaching. Unfortunately, some coaches may not take the risk of injury seriously, leading players to suffer extreme harm. For example, if you get a concussion after being hit in the head, the concussion would not constitute a lawsuit. However, if the coach forces you to continue playing, making your condition more severe, you can likely pursue compensation.
Similarly, you may find that equipment malfunctions can cause injuries. For example, if you are hit with a bat as a baseball catcher, this constitutes an injury as part of the game. However, if a wooden bat shatters the first time you use it to hit a ball, causing the wood to pierce your skin, this would constitute a product malfunction. As such, you’d likely be able to hold the manufacturer liable for the injuries you sustained.
What Should I Do if I’m Hurt?
If you suffer an injury caused by a negligent person, understanding how to recover compensation for the injuries and damage you’ve endured is crucial. The most important thing you should do is seek immediate medical attention. Keep all copies of hospital records and bills, as these will be important when you file a lawsuit.
Similarly, speaking to witnesses can help prove the injuries you suffered were not just a part of the game. Your teammates, spectators, and referees may testify that your coach saw you sustain a blow to the head before deciding to put you back on the field. Their testimony can help prove negligence.
Finally, you’ll need to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to help you get the justice you deserve. The team at the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi understands how complex these situations can be. As such, our dedicated firm will work tirelessly to fight for you. Schedule a free consultation with a member of our team today.
