Cheerleading Dangers…What You Need To Know!

Today, cheerleading is considered one of the most dangerous sports our youth can become involved in. Unbeknownst to the many spectators and admirers mesmerized at the sophisticated tricks, acrobats and air tossing stunts performed by bright smiling "flyers," the sport of cheerleading is the leading cause for catastrophic injury and disability afflicting 50% of young female athletes on both the high school and college level.
 

While having to generate enthusiasm and excitement for their teams, many cheerleaders experience horrific and devastating falls from up to 15 feet in the air during risky flips and high flying performances. According to the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research, in 2007 there were over 30,000 cheerleaders who had to go to the emergency room for treatment. The devastating injuries sustained by these cheerleaders included spinal cord & head injuries, blows to the chest, lung and heart, broken bones, fractures, dislocations, sprains/strains, concussions and contusions.
 

Cheerleading injuries continue to rise each year, in part because cheerleading has evolved into a high-risk competitive sporting activity and also because illtrained, uncertified or inexperienced coaches sometimes attempt to teach team participants stunts that are at a higher difficulty level than their squad is capable of achieving. This should never happen! School coaches and institution administrators, who put pressure on teams and demand dangerous routines and acrobatic stunts can and should be held liable for wrongful behavior. Parents can review“ A Parents Guide to Cheerleading Safety” which offers the five top questions to ask officials when their child joins a school cheerleading squad.
 

If your child or a member of your family was injured in a cheerleading accident, you may be entitled to compensation that may include medical expenses or bills, loss of income, and consideration for pain and suffering. Call attorneys Gonzalez & Cartwright today at 888-888-3903 for a free no-obligation consultation. Or visit us at www.gonzalezcartwright.com for additional information.