According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 3.5 million children under the age of 14 are injured and need medical treatment each year for sports injuries. Moreover, 21 percent of all traumatic brain injuries amongst children in the United States are associated with sports. As such, it would only seem natural that legislation would be necessary to ensure school children are provided with a safe way to play sports.
This is one of the many reasons why the Supporting Athletes, Families and Educators to Protect the Lives of Athletic Youth (SAFE PLAY) Act was established.
What Is the SAFE PLAY Act?
The CDC reports that nearly 30 million children across the country participate in organized sports. Although sports are an integral part of a healthy childhood, there is a disconcerting increase in student athletes suffering from sports-related injuries, such as concussions and heat stroke.
The SAFE PLAY Act was introduced by Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr., Senator Robert Menendez and Representative Louis Capps to promote youth safety in athletic activities. To carry out its goal, the bill takes a multipronged approach of research, community education, and federal support for school districts to adopt the best practices to keep young children safe while participating in athletic programs. In other words, the Act aims to make children, their parents, and coaches aware of things they need to do in order to protect athletic participants.
Injured In a Sporting Accident? Call Us!
Youth sports injuries can sometimes involve serious injuries to the child. If your child has suffered an injury through participation in a youth sport, you should consult an experienced New York personal injury lawyer.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers, please call Gersowitz, Libo & Korek, P.C. toll free at 1-800-529-9997.
