Injuries can leave even the most skilled professional athletes feeling uncertain about their future. The intense physical demands of sports make injuries almost inevitable, whether it’s a torn ligament, broken bone, or a more severe, career-ending condition.
But what happens when a professional athlete in California is injured?
At Betts Law Group, our team of advocates understands the unique challenges that athletes face when dealing with injuries. With years of experience representing professional athletes in workers’ compensation cases, Thomas Betts and Whitney Betts are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process, ensuring you secure the compensation you deserve.
Workers’ Compensation in California: The Basics
In California, workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees who are injured at work. Under California Labor Code § 3600, nearly all employees are covered, and benefits typically include:
- Medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Compensation for permanent disability
Professional athletes, like other employees, are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under California law. However, the process can be more complex due to their unique circumstances, including traveling for games and playing for out-of-state teams while competing in California.
Why Professional Athletes Are Eligible for Workers’ Compensation
Professional athletes are considered employees of the teams they play for, which makes them eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
If a professional athlete is injured while performing job duties—whether during a game, practice, or training session—they may be entitled to workers’ compensation. This applies to athletes in major leagues like the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL, as well as minor league players.
However, professional athletes face unique challenges when filing workers’ compensation claims, such as:
- Jurisdictional issues from playing in multiple states.
- Agreements between leagues and players’ unions that may affect compensation.
- High earnings that can complicate the calculation of lost wage benefits.
Navigating these complexities requires the help of an attorney experienced in representing professional and retired athletes. At Betts Law Group, we help athletes understand their rights and guide them through the claim process.
Common Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation for Professional Athletes
The physical demands of professional sports expose athletes to a wide variety of injuries. Some common injuries that may be covered under workers’ compensation include:
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Torn ligaments, such as ACL or MCL injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Chronic conditions like tendinitis or arthritis caused by overuse
- Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and muscle tears
These injuries can result in temporary or permanent disability, impacting a professional athlete’s career and future earning potential. Workers’ compensation can provide benefits to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs, giving injured athletes much-needed financial relief.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim as a Professional Athlete
Filing a workers’ compensation claim as a professional athlete follows a similar process to that of other employees but with additional complexities. To successfully file a claim, it’s important to speak to an: experienced and reliable athlete workers’ compensation attorney who advocates for injured professional athletes to assist you with the necessary paperwork and ensure your claim is filed properly and on time.
Can Retired Athletes File for Workers’ Compensation?
Yes, retired athletes may still be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they continue to experience injuries sustained during their playing career. California law, under Labor Code § 5412, allows claims for injuries that have resulted in ongoing medical issues, such as degenerative joint diseases, arthritis, or conditions related to concussions. If you’re a retired athlete dealing with long-term injury effects, speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney is essential to understand your rights.
Contact Our San Diego Athlete Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim as a professional athlete is more complex than it is for the average worker. They require an attorney who understands workers’ compensation laws and the unique challenges faced by athletes.
At Betts Law Group, we have years of experience representing professional athletes throughout San Diego and across California. Our legal team is dedicated to helping athletes secure the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Contact us so we can discuss your rights and legal options.