11 former professional football players have filed a class-action lawsuit in New Orleans federal court against the National Football League (NFL) and football helmet manufacturer Riddell, Inc. The lawsuit alleges that the NFL failed to sufficiently protect football players from concussions and the related risks associated with head injuries. All 11 plaintiffs currently reside in Louisiana and several, including John Fourcade, played for the New Orleans Saints. Other plaintiffs include Tyrone Hughes, Keaton Cromartie, Eric Hill, Curtis Baham, Treverance Faulk, Raion Hill, Maurice Hurst, Keaton Cromartie, Charles Commiskey, Vince Buck, and Tyrone Legette. Each plaintiff has reportedly suffered physical or mental problems associated with concussions they allegedly sustained while playing professional football in the NFL. The lawsuit claims that the NFL ignored medical evidence directly linking player concussions with traumatic brain injuries. The players also claim the NFL sought to conceal head injury risks to protect their multi-billion dollar enterprise. According to the players' suit, Congress also expressed concern over the way the NFL has handled concussion injury risks. According to a study conducted in 2000, approximately 60 percent of NFL players surveyed reportedly suffered at least one concussion on the field. 26 percent of the 1,000 players surveyed suffered from at least three concussions. The players who reported receiving a concussion claimed to have experienced more frequent headaches, difficulty with memory and concentration, and additional neurological problems. Similar recent lawsuits have accused the NFL of choosing to ignore the link between concussions and brain disease. Most of the lawsuits, initially filed in a variety of courts throughout the country, have since been consolidated in a Philadelphia court. At least 30 additional former players are expected to file suit against the league in the near future. The NFL has stated it will defend itself vigorously in response to the lawsuits. Because of the serious possible effects, any brain injury should always be taken seriously. Even a seemingly minor brain trauma can have a major impact on an individual's long-term functioning. Any head injury can cause unexpected brain damage which may have an effect on thinking, emotions, language abilities, and sensory perception. In addition to the immediate impact of a head injury such as a concussion, any brain injury may also increase the risk for developing other brain conditions over time. If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it is a good idea to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. J. Price McNamara is a diligent Contact J. Price McNamara ERISA Insurance Claim Attorney. He assists clients who have suffered a head injury throughout the State of Louisiana including Metairie, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Mandeville, and Lafayette. To speak with a qualified and hardworking personal injury advocate, contact J. Price McNamara today at (866) 248-0580.
J. Price McNamara
Attorney
Losing my own brother, then my father and sister after long, disabling illnesses just a few months apart drove a career change for me. Before that experience, I never truly understood the place you’re in. I never understood the dramatic impact that receiving (or not receiving) the disability and life insurance benefits you paid for and counted on can have on your life especially when you need to focus on family and healing. What I experienced with my own family now drives the way I view my clients and my work, and I will never forget it!
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