Pickleball injuries are on the rise. What if an injury is caused by poorly kept courts leading to a stumble or someone slips on wet surfaces during a tournament?
With many communities rushing to add pickleball courts, players often use shared, multi-use courts that may not be maintained with pickleball-specific safety standards in mind, further increasing the risk of injury.
Here’s a look at some potential scenarios where you may have a claim for a pickleball injury:
- The owners of a rec center or pickleball court failed to design or maintain a safe court.
- A court was not adequately cleaned between users, resulting in water or spills on the floor.
- A paddle or other sports equipment was poorly designed or manufactured, causing injury during play.
- Poor maintenance can lead to uneven surfaces, where even small disparities in level can cause players to trip and suffer from sprains or fractures.
- Loose or peeling surfaces pose a high risk of slips, potentially leading to serious injuries like concussions or ligament tears.
- Debris and neglected spills on courts create hazardous conditions, escalating the likelihood of accidents.
It’s crucial to recognize the importance of well-maintained facilities for the safe enjoyment of pickleball, underscoring the need for constant vigilance and regular upkeep to prevent such preventable injuries.
What should you do if you’re injured playing pickleball on a poorly maintained court? Remember to do the following:
- First, seek medical attention for your injuries to diagnose and treat them properly.
- Document your injuries and the court’s conditions at the time of the accident. Take photos and, if possible, gather witness statements.
- Report the incident to the facility’s management to inform them of the hazard.
- It’s also advisable to consult a personal injury attorney specializing in sports injuries. They can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim for compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and any other related losses.
