NFL Concussion Lawsuit Blazes the Trail for Similar Lawsuit Against NHL

Earlier last year and throughout this year, the NFL has been involved in a lawsuit brought by a number of former players alleging that the league failed to take adequate precautions to protect the players from concussions and related head injuries. According to one news source, recently a group of NHL players have piggy-backed on that same idea and have filed a lawsuit against the NHL making similar allegations.

The lawsuit specifically alleges that the NHL withheld information about the long-term effects of the head injuries that can occur from playing in the NHL. Originating back in early 2014, the NHL concussion lawsuit has recently been picking up steam with the publicity surrounding the NFL litigation. In fact, just recently 29 former players joined the lawsuit.

Like many deceased players formerly in the NFL, it is surmised that several NHL players have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which is a disease of the brain that can only be diagnosed post-mortem. Consistent with a CTE diagnosis, the lawsuit points to several players who died at young ages from suicide.

CTE in the News

Recently, with all the litigation surrounding the NFL lawsuit, CTE has taken a front seat in news media for the first time. The disease, which can be caused by rapid or repeated injuries to the head, can lead to severe symptoms, such as:

  • Memory loss;
  • Impaired judgment;
  • Aggression;
  • Depression;
  • Suicidality;
  • Impulse control problems; and
  • Progressive dementia

The causes for CTE are numerous and not completely understood by experts. It seems clear that repeated injuries to the head, such as concussions, are a contributing factor. However, there is also an unproven link between CTE and genetics. Certainly, this will play a large role in future lawsuits alleging CTE in high-contact sports and activities.

Might I Have CTE?

Unfortunately, there is no way to diagnose CTE in a living person. The only way to diagnose the disease is through postmortem neuropathological analysis. Therefore, it is impossible to know who has CTE and who is suffering only from the symptoms of the disease but not the disease itself. If you believe that you may have CTE due to participation in a high-impact sport or activity, you should speak with a dedicated attorney about whether you may have a case for damages against the responsible party.

Do You Suffer from the Symptoms of CTE?

If you or a loved one suffer from the symptoms of CTE or another traumatic brain injury, you may be entitled to monetary damages. The lawsuit against the NFL has paved the way for other lawsuits against similar leagues, like the NHL, as discussed above. Before you file your case, be sure to speak with an experienced accident attorney about your case and what you may be expected to prove in order to be successful. Call 410-654-3600 to set up a free consultation with an experienced attorney today.

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