Thousands of people suffer injuries each year whilst playing sport. Often, injuries are seen as inevitable and as being a risk of the game. However, if somebody is to blame for your sports injury you may be entitled to claim compensation.

In order to bring a compensation claim for a sports injury you have suffered you need to prove that the injury occured as a result of negligence. This negligence could be on the part of:

• other players
• organisers
• sports ground owners
• match officials
• local authorities
• schools

What type of sports injury can you claim for?
All those taking part in sport have a duty to take reasonable care. However, carelessness, errors of judgement or poor skill do not make somebody liable for an injury and you would not be able to bring a sports injury compensation claim in these circumstances.

You may be able to make a sports injury compensation claim if your injury was caused by: 

• dangerous, reckless or violent behaviour by another player
• an illegal tackle
• defective sporting equipment
• a defective playing surface
• inadequate supervision or coaching

It is not just the participants who may be able to bring a claim. Organisers of sporting events have a duty to ensure spectators are safe and free from risk of injury. If you are injured as a result of unsafe spectating facilities, such as unsafe seating, indequate lighting or overcrowding, you may also be entitled to bring a sports injury compensation claim.

How to make a sports injury compensation claim
To make a successful sports injury compensation claim you need to prove that another person was responsible for your injury. It is therefore important to report the injury to staff and if possible record it in the accident book. You need to get the details of any witnesses, and keep records of all medical treatment you receive for your injury.

Time limitations
Claiming compensation for a sports injury can be complex and each incident is judged on its own merit. It is important therefore to seek advice from a specialist sports injury lawyer. Anthony Gold's personal injury team has a wealth of experience in dealing with sports injury compensation claims. We work with you to ensure you get any rehabilitation you may need and to achieve the best settlement possible for you. To find out if you have a claim, complete our sports injury compensation claim enquiry form.