As we head into summertime and students move from one grade to another, many schools begin working with student athletes to strengthen their teams in time for football season in the fall semester. Throughout the country, the long-term effects of football injuries are causing many parents to rethink allowing their children to play the sport, but here in Texas many parents still find community and character-building merit in junior high and varsity football.
Unfortunately, no one has ever been so respectful of the merits of football to avoid the consequences of regular, repeated impacts on a developing human body, particularly the lasting effects of head injuries. If your child makes the team this year, do you know how you’ll respond when injury strikes?
A professional response uses the strength of the law to protect the child you love and ensure that they receive the care they need if and when an injury occurs. Strong legal action not only helps your child heal when injuries occur, it also helps ensure that other families understand that they have rights and may defend them.
Who holds liability for your child’s injury?
Depending on the nature of the injury your child receives, a number of parties may hold liability. If, for instance, your child suffered an injury because of unreasonable or unsafe activity during practice, the coach often has liability. Along similar lines, a child may suffer harm during hazing performed to “Welcome” them to the team.
Of course, many injuries happen on the field during a game. These are not always simple legal issues to resolve, so it is important to consult specific applicable laws.
Understand your rights before you sign them away
Some parents have concerns about signing release forms for their child to play contact sports. If you have any of these concerns, do not hesitate to consult with a legal professional who can help you understand the terms of release and give you the information you need to make an informed decision.
As a parent, it is rarely easy to balance between protecting your child and preparing them to compete in a difficult world. With a strong legal strategy and an understanding of your rights, you can offer your child the opportunities they want while avoiding unnecessary risks.
Whether your child plays football or experiences some other school-related injury, your rights and the rights of your family deserve strong, clear protections, for your own peace of mind and for the sake of the child you love.
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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