Football is one of the most popular sports in the United States, but it also carries a high risk of head injuries. From youth leagues to the NFL, athletes at every level face the possibility of concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can have devastating long-term effects, including memory loss, chronic headaches, mood changes, and in some cases, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
At Hillstone Law, we represent athletes, students, and families whose lives have been forever changed by football-related head injuries.
Common Causes of Football Head Injuries
Football involves constant contact, tackles, and high-speed collisions. Head injuries often result from:
- Helmet-to-helmet collisions
- Hard tackles and falls
- Repeated subconcussive hits during practices and games
- Improperly fitted or defective helmets
- Inadequate medical evaluations after an initial hit
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 300,000 sports-related concussions occur in the U.S. every year, with football being the leading cause among male athletes. Learn more here: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup
Long-Term Consequences of Football Head Injuries
Head injuries in football are not always “minor.” Even one concussion can lead to lasting consequences, especially if athletes return to play too soon. Possible long-term effects include:
- Post-concussion syndrome (persistent headaches, dizziness, blurred vision)
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Cognitive decline affecting memory and focus
- Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders
- Seizures or neurological conditions
- Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma
Who May Be Liable in a Football Head Injury Case?
Liability depends on the circumstances of the injury. Responsible parties may include:
- Schools, coaches, or athletic programs for failing to follow concussion protocols
- Helmet or equipment manufacturers for defective safety gear
- Medical staff for misdiagnosing or clearing players too soon
- Sports organizations for negligent safety policies
In recent years, organizations like the NFL have faced lawsuits over their handling of concussion-related injuries. Read more here: https://www.nfl.com/playerhealthandsafety
Steps to Take After a Football Head Injury
- Seek immediate medical attention and request a neurological evaluation.
- Do not allow the athlete to return to play until cleared by a specialist.
- Keep detailed records of medical visits, symptoms, and recovery.
- Report the injury to the school, coach, or athletic organization in writing.
- Contact an experienced football head injury lawyer to review your legal options.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
At Hillstone Law, we know how devastating a head injury can be for athletes and their families. We work to hold negligent schools, coaches, leagues, and equipment manufacturers accountable, fighting for compensation to cover:
- Medical expenses and future treatment
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Long-term disability support
If your child, loved one, or family member suffered a football head injury in California, you don’t have to fight this battle alone.
