Youths and Sports Injuries

Whether in a community league or at school, millions of children and youths play organized sports. Parents are keenly aware of the valuable lessons kids learn when they compete in athletics with their peers: learning to cope with disappointment, teamwork, self-discipline, and the value of health and exercise are just a few among these. Unfortunately, as beneficial as sports can be, they also often lead to injuries, and even permanent disability. West Palm Beach injury attorney Jessica Mishali is passionate about helping clients whose injuries were caused by another’s negligence.

Years ago a high school senior was looking forward to graduation and college. He was healthy and popular, but also a strong student—a parent’s dream. He also played varsity football. One evening, just weeks before season’s end, he was double-teamed by the defense. A penalty was called, but he was down. He never got up. He spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair. The dreams of a parent turned into a nightmare.

This is a true story, all too often played out on the fields and in the gyms where our kids play sports—30 million of them. A full 3 ½ million are injured each year. Indeed, one-third of all injuries among individuals under age 18 are due to sports. When negligence can be ascribed, West Palm Beach injury attorney Jessica Mishali may be able to help.

Some sports are inherently more dangerous than others. West Palm Beach injury attorney Jessica Mishali is more likely to see clients injured in hockey and football than, say, tennis. Cheerleading has gained more public notice in recent years for its hazards as well. Whether you consider it a sport, cheerleading takes skill and practice; it can also lead to serious injury—even death.

As a parent, you need to be realistic about your child’s ability to play a particular sport. Sometimes kids are forced to play a sport that is not appropriate for their body type; a reedy, slight boy may not make a good football defensive end. Also, coaches need to make sure kids are not needlessly placed in harm’s way. A risky play that may be appropriate for the NFL or NHL is not worth adapting to a community youth league if injury is likely. Moreover, kids must wear protective gear at all times, even during practice. Finally, fair rules of engagement need to be reinforced among kids. A win-at-any-cost philosophy leaves little room for humane values.

West Palm Beach injury attorney is dedicated to assisting clients with gaining compensation when their injuries are due to another’s fault or negligence. Call today for a consultation at (561) 833-2772.