New Legislation would Require Physician OK for Athletes to Resume Sports Activities after Concussion

A state bill is making its way through the South Carolina Congress which would require stricter medical care after a high school athlete suffers a concussion. Currently, many schools already follow guidelines which require that any player be removed from play if he or she shows any signs of a possible concussion. The concern is that some schools do not have physicians or trainers on the field that can spot possible symptoms. The bill, H.3061, would require that all schools follow guidelines regarding what to do if a player shows any signs of a concussion. Even if the school cannot have a physician on the field to clear a student to return to play, that student must see a physician (not just a trainer) and get checked out and cleared before returning to athletic activities. The legislation calls for a collaboration between the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Services and the S.C. Department of Education so these guidelines can be satisfactorily worked out. The medical director at a Columbia sports medicine concussion center, Dr. Craig Burnworth, is a strong supporter of the legislation which could help protect the health of young athletes. He stated, "We're just catching up with other states. Thirty-seven other states already have these kinds of guidelines." The bill includes not only requirements for physician clearance but also important education for school nurses, athletic trainers, coaches and related personnel so signs of a possible concussion can be rapidly identified.

If you or someone you care about has suffered a concussion or traumatic brain injury due to another's negligence then you should speak with a personal injury lawyer about your legal rights as soon as possible. A traumatic brain injury, or "TBI", can cause substantial health problems which can impact a person for the rest of his or her life. If that injury could have been prevented with proper care or diagnosis then you may be entitled to compensation.

Personal Injury Attorney in Columbia, S.C.

An attorney with us at Masella Law has obtained significant compensation for our clients who have suffered an injury in an accident that was not their fault. From spinal injuries, TBIs, car accidents, motorcycle accidents and pedestrian accidents to dog bites and premises liability cases, we have the skill, dedication and determination to get our clients the best outcome possible. We understand what you are going through and we may be able to help you get the responsible party held legally liable. Contact our firm today to schedule a free initial consultation.