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San Diego
Professional
Athlete Injury Lawyers

If you played professional sports, you’ve got injuries – even if you never missed a game. That’s just part of the job. What most athletes don’t know is that they may be entitled to compensation for those injuries, even years after retiring.

At Betts Law Group, our California legal team helps former NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and other professional athletes access the compensation and medical care they deserve for injuries that build up over time due to the physical demands of professional sports.

See If You Qualify

You’re Not Suing. You’re Filing a Claim.

Your team took care of you to keep you in the game. Now they must take care of you after you’re finished playing.

This isn’t a lawsuit. It’s a workers’ compensation claim. These claims are already accounted for in the league and team insurance systems. Your team won’t be surprised; they know these benefits exist and that they may owe them to you.

If you played a professional sport and suffered wear and tear, you may qualify, even if:

Many of our clients didn’t know they were eligible.
Contact us, and let’s find out.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

“I can’t say enough good things about my experience working with Tom and his team. From start to finish, he was incredibly professional, responsive, and thorough. He took the time to understand every detail of my case, walked me through the process step-by-step, and made sure I felt informed and supported throughout. Tom’s attention to detail and dedication to getting the best possible outcome truly set him apart. He combines sharp legal knowledge with a calm, confident approach that immediately put me at ease. I always felt like I had the best advocate in my corner.”

– Clayton C.

“100% recommend Tom and his team! Tom worked with me step by step to get to a fair and just settlement for my past professional baseball injuries. Easy to work with and always willing to advise and inform on the process.”

– Todd D.

“I would 100% recommend Thomas Betts to any former professional athlete who received an injury while playing. My case was settled quickly and seamlessly, with clear communication from start to finish.”

– Eli G.

“I reached out to Tom after a former teammate had suggested his name to me. He was professional in all matters dealing with me. He is a trustworthy, and thorough person that understands the process from start to finish. I can’t recommend him and his firm highly enough.”

– Jim M.

What Is Cumulative Trauma?

Cumulative trauma refers to physical injuries that happen over time – not from a single hit or play, but from repeated stress and movement over the course of a career. For athletes, that might look like:

  • Chronic knee, shoulder, or back pain
  • Degenerative joint conditions
  • Concussions and post-concussive symptoms
  • Limited range of motion or strength
  • Hearing or vision issues linked to repeated trauma

You don’t need a catastrophic injury to qualify. The physical toll of playing professional sports (practices, games, travel, collisions, etc.) can qualify you for a claim.

Who’s Eligible for a California Workers’ Compensation Claim for Professional Athletes?

You may qualify for a workers’ comp claim in California if:

  • You played for a California-based team
  • You signed your contract while in California
  • You lived or trained in California during your career

We’ll review your playing history and let you know quickly whether your situation fits.

See If You Qualify

What Can You Recover?

Most athlete claims result in a tax-free lump sum settlement, and may also include:

  • Coverage for future medical treatment
  • Compensation for cumulative trauma injuries
  • Vocational retraining (in some cases)

We handle the full process—from verifying eligibility to filing and negotiating your settlement. You focus on healing. We handle the legal work.

Why Betts Law Group?

We’ve helped countless former pro athletes get the benefits they earned. We understand the unique issues former players face.

You’re proud of your career, but your body paid the price.
You don’t want public attention or drama.
You didn’t know compensation was an option.

Professional athlete injury attorney Tom Betts of the Betts Law Group will meet you where you are and guide you through the process with respect.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim as a professional athlete in California?

Any current or retired professional athlete who signed a contract or played for a California-based team or a California affiliate may qualify to file a claim.

What types of sports injuries qualify for workers’ compensation?

Eligible injuries include specific injuries from games or practices and cumulative trauma injuries caused by repeated wear and tear over time during your career.

What benefits can I receive from a workers’ compensation claim?

Most claims result in a tax-free lump sum settlement, covering past injuries, ongoing physical limitations, and future medical treatment related to your sports career.

Why should I file a workers’ compensation claim as a former athlete?

Teams are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance for injuries sustained during your career. Many athletes don’t realize they’re entitled to benefits because teams often don’t inform players.

How soon should I file my claim after retiring?

You should file as soon as possible. In California, you generally have one year from the date you learn of your eligibility to file a claim.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for my workers’ compensation claim?

Lawyers like Betts Law Group work on contingency, meaning you pay no upfront fees and only pay if you receive a settlement or award.

Is filing a workers’ compensation claim the same as suing my team?

No. This is an administrative claim handled through the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board—not a lawsuit.

Can I file a claim if I never reported injuries while playing?

Yes. Claims can be based on cumulative injuries or trauma even if you didn’t file reports during your playing days.

What types of sports injuries qualify for workers’ compensation?

Eligible injuries include specific injuries from games or practices and cumulative trauma injuries caused by repeated wear and tear over time during your career.

What if I retired many years ago? Can I still file?

Possibly. Eligibility depends on your circumstances and when you became aware of your right to file. Contact us to review your case promptly.

Do I need to live in California now to file a claim?

No. You don’t need to live in California currently, but your playing career must have had a connection to California teams, contracts, or training.

You played through the pain. Now it’s time to get the care and compensation you’ve earned.

See If You Qualify