Concussion Lawsuit Against NHL Gains Momentum

We've already heard a lot about the lawsuit against the NFL filed by thousands of former players and their families who have suffered due to football-related head injuries. A growing body of evidence links traumatic brain injuries (such as those sustained by athletes) to serious long-term effects, drug use, depression, and suicide.

It should come as no surprise that a similar class-action lawsuit against the National Hockey League is gaining momentum. In recent weeks, the number of former players involved in the suit has nearly doubled. Earlier this week, Steve Montador, an NHL retiree with a history of concussions was found dead at the age of 35. It was a concussion that ended Montador's career in 2012, and he admitted to struggling with depression the following year.

There are several blogs and papers online that explain what many people do not realize about head injuries. A brain injury like a concussion, he says, is “not merely an event, but a process.” Inflammation in the brain that persists can cause chronic damage and long-term problems like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE),  brain atrophy, depression, and cognitive decline. Unfortunately, these types of long term effects often go untreated. Repeated head trauma like that sustained by athletes increases the probability of these types of conditions

Untreated Brain Injuries Can Lead to Premature Death

As we have seen in several cases, untreated brain injuries can lead to premature death.

The lawsuits against the NFL and the NHL draw public attention to the problem and put pressure on these organizations to prioritize the safety of their players. The concern over the future of these professional leagues radiates down to our youth leagues, as parents consider the safety of their children. While it is vital that changes in technology, training, and coaching be implemented in order to combat concussive injuries, parents can help, too. Simply knowing the signs of concussion can help ensure that the damage is treated properly and is not exacerbated. Following a head injury, parents should pay attention for signs of resulting long-term disorders like depression or other psychological illnesses.

If your child has suffered a traumatic brain injury do to someone else's negligence, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical and emotional losses. For a free evaluation of your case, contact the personal injury lawyers at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys at 855-866-5529.