Can you sue for getting hit by a baseball?

Did you get hit by a baseball recently and had it injure you? Perhaps you were at a ball game, and a foul ball struck you. Getting compensation in these cases is usually challenging. However, in limited circumstances, a Palatine personal injury lawyer might help you get compensation for your injuries, including medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. 

The Baseball Rule

The baseball rule is a US legal doctrine that limits the liability of teams and stadium owners. Specifically, the baseball rule generally protects teams from lawsuits from fans who are hurt at baseball games. This rule is based on the idea that fans assume a degree of risk of being hurt by foul balls or bullying bats when they are at a game. 

The baseball rule states that stadiums and teams must provide netting in specific areas of the stadium, including behind home plate. However, they are not typically liable for injuries that happen in other areas of the stadium, where there is less risk of being hit. 

Holding A Team Or Athlete Liable For A Baseball Strike Injury 

When you buy tickets to a ball game in Illinois, you need to review the small print on the back of your ticket. Generally, the ticket fine print will say that you agree that you cannot sue the team or stadium for being injured by an errant baseball, puck, etc. Such disclaimers usually stand up in court. When attending a baseball game, you assume the risks of what can occur in the stands. 

A slim possibility in a premises liability claim is if a foul ball injury happened because the team or stadium was reckless or negligent in keeping fans safe from injury. For instance, a claim is possible if defensive netting that protects fans from foul balls is defective. Or, if a player deliberately threw a ball at you in anger and you were hurt, this is reckless behavior that could result in compensation for your injuries. 

Potential Compensation In A Baseball Strike Claim

If a team was negligent in their duties or you believe it was, you should talk to a personal injury or premises liability attorney right away. An experienced attorney will review the facts of your case and your injuries to determine if you can receive compensation. Potential compensation could include: 

• Medical costs related to your baseball strike injuries
• Lost earnings and wages if you cannot work
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Talk To A Premises Liability Attorney 

Obtaining compensation when a baseball strikes you at a game is difficult. In most cases, the team and stadium owner are protected from lawsuits because you have assumed a degree of risk by attending a game. However, every case is different and a premises liability attorney can review your case at no cost. They can quickly tell you if you have a potential case. There is no harm in talking to an attorney because lawyers in this field almost always offer free consultations.