The NHL Concussion Settlement Agreement: What You Need to Know
Concussions have been a hot topic in the world of sports for many years, and the National Hockey League (NHL) has been no exception. In recent years, former NHL players have filed a lawsuit alleging that the league failed to protect them from the long-term effects of head injuries. After years of legal battles, the NHL concussion settlement agreement was announced in 2018. Here`s what you need to know about it.
What is the NHL concussion settlement agreement?
The NHL concussion settlement agreement is a legal settlement between the NHL and former players who claimed that the league did not do enough to protect them from concussions. The settlement includes a payment of $18.9 million by the NHL to former players, as well as a commitment by the league to provide medical monitoring and treatment for those players affected by concussion-related illnesses.
Who is eligible to receive compensation under the settlement?
Former NHL players who meet certain criteria are eligible to receive compensation under the settlement. These criteria include:
– Being a former player who retired before February 14, 2017
– Having a diagnosis of a qualifying condition, which includes Alzheimer`s disease, Parkinson`s disease, and certain forms of dementia
– Having played in at least one NHL game during their career
– Having been a Canadian citizen, resident, or played for a Canadian team at some point in their career
How much compensation can eligible players receive?
The amount of compensation that eligible players can receive depends on several factors, including the severity of their condition, their age at the time of diagnosis, and the number of years they played in the NHL. The settlement provides for a maximum payment of $22,000 per player, but most players are expected to receive much less than that.
What is the NHL`s commitment to medical monitoring and treatment?
Under the settlement, the NHL has committed to provide medical monitoring and treatment for former players affected by concussion-related illnesses. This includes:
– Baseline medical examinations for eligible players
– Follow-up medical examinations for players with qualifying conditions
– Access to medical treatment and services related to their condition
– A „Common Good Fund” to support research and education on the prevention and treatment of concussions
What are the implications of the settlement for the NHL?
The NHL`s concussion settlement agreement is a significant milestone in the ongoing battle over head injuries in sports. It is the first major settlement of its kind in professional hockey, and it sets a precedent for other leagues to follow. The settlement also highlights the potential long-term risks associated with playing contact sports at a high level, and it underscores the importance of taking steps to protect athletes from those risks.
In conclusion, the NHL concussion settlement agreement is an important step forward for former NHL players affected by concussion-related illnesses. It provides much-needed compensation and medical support to those who have suffered as a result of their time on the ice. At the same time, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks associated with contact sports and the need for continued vigilance and action to protect athletes from those risks.
