Concussions are getting more attention at all levels of contact sports, including high school.
A concussion is often described as a mild traumatic brain injury, but concussions need to be taken seriously. Not only can they result in significant brain injury, they put the brain at risk for further injury.
Ice hockey has the second highest rate of concussions of any youth sport, after football. Concussions account for more than 20% of all injuries in hockey, the highest proportion of any sport. There are many steps being taken to reduce the risk your child will suffer a concussion when participating in ice hockey, but is it enough?
Rule Changes and Enforcement to Protect against Brain Injury
This year, the National Federation of State High School Associations, which writes rules for most high school sports, changed the ice hockey rules to protect players against brain injury. The new rules say no player should make contact with an opposing player’s head or neck. This rule has been separated out from the unnecessary roughness rule, making it a more visible rule.
Your child’s high school should abide by these rules and make sure that officials are enforcing them properly.
Concussion Recognition and Treatment
It’s also important that coaches and players pay attention to the symptoms of concussion. If your child suffers a hit and reports a concussion or shows the signs of concussion, such as:
- Appearing dazed
- Confusion about assignment
- Forgetting plays or formations
- Forgets the date, game, score, or opponent or answers questions slowly
- Skates clumsily
- Shows behavioral changes
- Loses memory
Your child should be taken out of the game and evaluated for a concussion by a qualified medical professional. Once a person suffers one concussion, they are at increased risk for future brain injury.
If your child suffered serious brain injury because a coach or team didn’t properly prevent or respond to a concussion, you may be able to get compensation for your child’s injury. For more information about your legal rights and options, please contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. in Chicago today for a free consultation.
Concussions and Brain Injuries from High School Ice Hockey: Chicago’s Real Risks & Legal Remedies
Concussions and brain injuries in high school ice hockey are a growing concern in Chicago. Recent studies found that concussions make up over 20% of all injuries in youth hockey, second only to football among high school sports. With competitive sports more popular than ever, parents and athletes must understand the real risks, recovery challenges, and legal rights if an injury occurs.
Serious Injuries Contact Sports in High School Can Cause
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are on the rise, with youth sports accounting for about 65% of all sports-related head injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments.
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Ice hockey has one of the highest concussion rates—more than 1.58 concussions per 1,000 athletic exposures, with most happening during games rather than practices. In Illinois, cheerleading, football, and ice hockey make up the majority of high school concussions reported annually.
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About 9% of all high school athletic injuries are concussions; in hockey, the risk is even higher due to high-speed collisions and stick or puck impact.
Chicago by the Numbers
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Chicago’s youth concussion rates have steadily increased, tracking national trends—roughly 64% of all concussions occur during competition as compared to practice.
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Symptoms range from headaches (40%), dizziness (15%), confusion (9%), and even loss of consciousness (4%) or amnesia (6%).
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Rates climb with each year of play: kids playing from age 5 onward are at much greater lifetime risk.
Frequently Asked Questions: Personal Injury and Contact Sports
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can schools and leagues be held legally responsible for concussion injuries? | Yes. If coaches, trainers, or schools ignore symptoms, fail to follow concussion protocols, or allow unsafe play, they may be liable for damages. |
| Are brain injuries always obvious right after contact? | No. Symptoms like confusion, mood changes, or headaches may not appear immediately; delayed diagnosis can still be grounds for legal compensation. |
| Does signing a waiver prevent athletes from suing for injuries? | Not always. Waivers can’t excuse gross negligence or failure to follow safety regulations. |
| Should you consult a lawyer even for mild concussions? | Yes. Even mild TBIs can have lasting effects and financial implications—legal experts ensure every cost is covered. |
| What if my child had prior concussions? | Aggravation of pre-existing injuries can increase liability. Lawyers help prove these complex claims. |
| What damages can families claim for brain injuries? | Medical bills, lost academic/athletic opportunities, future therapy, pain and suffering, and more. |
| Is emotional trauma covered? | Yes. Mental health impacts like depression or anxiety are eligible for compensation in Illinois. |
| How long do I have to file a claim? | In Illinois, most claims must be filed within two years—so act quickly to preserve your rights. |
Why Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. Stands Above the Rest
Award-winning, client-focused and locally trusted, Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. has achieved record-setting settlements for Chicago families:
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Track Record: Secured Illinois’ largest-ever $1.5 million dog bite verdict and $3.8 million medical malpractice wrongful death settlement.
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Elite Credentials: Matthew L. Willens is a Top 100 Illinois Super Lawyer (2012–2025) and holds the AV Preeminent 5.0/5 rating—the state’s highest legal honor.
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Client Advocacy: Testimonials praise personalized attention, rapid communication, and maximizing settlements in a matter of months—not years.
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Insurance Insider Advantage: Willens & Baez attorneys are former insurance defense lawyers, now on your side. They know every insurer’s “playbook” and fight mercilessly for injured clients.
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Zero Fee Promise: No charge unless you win, with all costs advanced, free consults—available 24/7, and the team will come to you anywhere in Chicago.
If your child or loved one has suffered a brain injury or concussion playing high school sports in Chicago, don’t face medical bills, insurance headaches, and emotional trauma alone. Call Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. at (312) 957-4166 today for a free, no-risk consultation. Discover why Chicago’s top-rated injury firm delivers life-changing results, compassionate service, and relentless advocacy—for every family, every time.
Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C.: Where Chicago families turn when the stakes are highest. Your fight is their fight—justice, expertise, results.
