The legal position on sports injuries turns on a single distinction: injuries that are part of the game, and injuries caused by something that shouldn't have happened. A hard but fair tackle is the first. A tackle made recklessly, a pitch left in a dangerous state, or gym equipment that hasn't been maintained is the second.
Courts look at whether the conduct fell outside what a participant could reasonably expect in that sport, not simply whether an injury occurred.
What kinds of sports injury claim do we handle?
Dangerous or reckless play
Going beyond what's reasonably expected in the sport.
Unsafe facilities and playing surfaces
Including poorly maintained pitches, courts and floors.
Faulty or badly maintained equipment
In gyms, leisure centres and clubs.
Inadequate supervision or coaching
Particularly involving children or beginners.
Insufficient safety measures
Including missing protective equipment or unsafe layout.
Injuries at organised events
Where the organiser failed to take reasonable precautions.
What if I was partly at fault?
Voluntarily taking part in a sport doesn't remove your right to claim, but it is relevant. The question is whether what happened fell within the ordinary risks of the sport or outside them. Where responsibility is shared, compensation is reduced proportionally.
What you could receive
Sports injury claims cover general damages for the injury and its effect on your life, and special damages for financial losses, which commonly include lost earnings, private physiotherapy and treatment, and where relevant, lost club or gym membership.
We'll talk you through what's realistic for your situation once we've reviewed the details. We won't overpromise, and we won't quote a figure before we've properly understood your case.