Terre Haute Brain Injury Lawyers Discuss New Law That Would Change Athletic Policies

March has been named Brain Injury Awareness Month across the United States. So, our Terre Haute brain injury lawyers at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin would like to do our part to contribute to the cause by discussing one of the most common contributing factors in brain injuries among children and adolescents—athletics.

Thousands of sports-related brain injuries are reported each year, but officials are working to reduce these numbers by creating stringent legal policies regarding this type of injury. They plan to educate athletes and coaches about the causes, signs, and symptoms of a brain injury, as well as govern when injured players should be allowed to return to play.

The Times reports Indiana Senate Bill 403 is expected to take effect on July 1, 2016, and will require all athletes in grades 5-12 to complete a concussion safety and awareness course before they will be allowed to take to the field. Football coaches will also be required to undergo further education regarding heat-related illness, proper equipment fit, and practicing proper tackling and hitting techniques.

At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, we recognize the long-term damage that can be caused by a brain injury suffered by a child or teen. That’s why our Terre Haute personal injury lawyers applaud this new law being considered by our state’s legislators and we are hopeful it passes during the upcoming legislative session.