Professional sports are often seen as a lucrative career path. Unfortunately, the physical demands placed on athletes can be incredibly strenuous and lead to long-term health consequences. Even seemingly minor injuries can get worse over time, leading to chronic pain and disability that can significantly impact an athlete’s quality of life after their playing days are over.
At Betts Law Group, our team of experienced injury attorneys has represented countless professional athletes that have suffered injuries and is committed to helping those that have been injured get the compensation they deserve.
Are You Eligible for a California Sports-Related Injury Claim?
The physical demands of professional sports take a toll on the body, and even with the best medical care, years of high-impact collisions, repetitive movements, and strenuous training can lead to pain that lasts after you leave the field.
If you’re a current or former pro athlete who signed a written or verbal contract in California, played for a California-based team, or played for a California affiliate of a team based elsewhere, you may be eligible for compensation.
There are two types of sports injuries that are eligible:
- Specific Injuries: These are the result of a single incident during a practice or game, like a broken bone from a tackle or a torn ligament from a sudden movement.
- Cumulative Traumas: These injuries develop gradually over time due to the repetitive stress and strain of playing professional sports. The damage may not be noticeable immediately or even during your career, but symptoms like chronic pain, limited mobility, or memory issues can surface years later.
If you’re not sure if you’re eligible, you can fill out our athlete injury qualification form so we can review your case and let you know if you have a case.
Most Common Types of Sports-Related Injuries
Being a professional athlete is exciting, but years of games and practices can take a toll on the body. These can often lead to injuries, whether right away or later in life. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Sprains and strains: These are the most frequent types of sports injuries, affecting ligaments and muscles due to overstretching or tearing. Ankles, knees, and hamstrings are particularly susceptible.
- Fractures: Broken bones can occur from impacts or falls. They commonly affect wrists, ankles, and fingers, but can happen on many different parts of the body.
- Knee injuries: ACL tears, meniscus tears, and patellar tendinitis are prevalent due to the knee’s complex structure and the demands placed on it.
- Concussions: These brain injuries can have long-term effects and are particularly common in contact sports.
- Shoulder injuries: Rotator cuff tears and dislocations are common, particularly in sports involving throwing or overhead movements.
Long-term sports-related injuries, also known as chronic injuries, are a significant concern for athletes. These injuries typically develop gradually over time due to repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event. Common examples include osteoarthritis, tendonitis, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and chronic back pain.
These types of injuries can manifest long after an athlete’s career ends, which can impact their quality of life and overall well-being. It’s crucial for athletes to prioritize proper training, rest, and rehabilitation to minimize the risk of developing long-term sports-related injuries. If an injury persists, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation for your pain and suffering.
Get In Touch With Betts Law Group
Betts Law Group focuses our efforts in helping pro athletes get compensation for career-related injuries by securing workers’ compensation benefits, something many athletes aren’t aware they’re entitled to. We can file with the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board on your behalf. You could receive benefits like temporary/permanent disability payments, medical care coverage, and even vocational rehabilitation.
Contact us today to start the process!