CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, has returned to the spotlight after a tragic incident in New York involving Shane Tamura, a 27-year-old who reportedly believed he had CTE linked to his past football experiences. While the situation was severe and criminal in nature, it highlights the ongoing public concern about the long-term effects of repeated head injuries. Individuals with brain trauma from sports or other activities can face serious challenges, and consulting with our Seattle, WA brain injury lawyer may be crucial for those affected by similar neurological injuries.
CTE is a progressive brain disease caused by repeated head impacts, often from contact sports like football, boxing, or hockey. According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition destroys nerve cells in the brain over time, affecting cognitive function, behavior, and motor skills. Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and trouble with balance or movement. Currently, CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death through brain autopsy, making prevention and early intervention critical.
Washington state has played a pioneering role in addressing head injuries in youth sports. In 2009, the “Zackery Lystedt law” was enacted to establish concussion education and safety protocols for student athletes. Inspired by Zackery Lystedt, a young athlete who suffered catastrophic brain injuries in middle school, the law mandates annual education for players, parents, and coaches. It also requires immediate removal from play for any suspected head injury and clearance by a licensed healthcare professional before returning to sports.
The legislation was so influential that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell sent a letter to all 44 state governors urging adoption of similar measures. Studies in Washington state show that coach compliance with concussion training is nearly universal, documentation of injuries has increased, and the rate of recurrent concussions has dropped. This demonstrates the law’s effectiveness in reducing the risk of long-term brain damage in young athletes.
Trusted Legal Guidance For Brain Injury Victims
Brain injuries caused by sports, accidents, or other trauma can have lasting effects on daily life and earning potential. Our Seattle brain injury attorneys assist clients in seeking compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, and lost income due to head trauma. We work with other professionals to understand the full extent of neurological damage, helping families get through the process of proving injury and securing justice.
Whether the injury results from repeated impacts in sports, a car accident, or another traumatic event, our team of head trauma lawyers evaluates every case thoroughly. Neurological injuries often require extensive documentation from medical professionals, including cognitive assessments, imaging studies, and long-term care plans. Our neurological injury lawyers help make sure that clients receive fair compensation for the profound impact brain injuries can have on their lives. In fact, we’ve helped our clients secure millions in compensation after an injury. And since we offer free case evaluations, potential clients can rest easy knowing they’ll get the information they need without having to pay a cent.
If you or a loved one has experienced a serious brain injury, consulting with our experienced legal team is critical. At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, our Seattle brain injury lawyers are dedicated to advocating for victims of neurological trauma, helping families get through the claims process, insurance negotiations, and potential litigation. Contact our concussion lawyers today to learn how we can assist in securing the compensation you deserve after a brain injury.
