What is the “duty of safety” in sports injury cases?

In sports injury cases, the “duty of safety” is the legal concept which states that those in charge of organizing or allowing a sporting event have a responsibility to protect the safety of the participants. This duty applies to coaches, referees, and other responsible adults. In Washington, the duty of safety goes beyond the risk of injury that comes with any sport, as it requires those in charge to sense potential dangers and to take steps to mitigate them. Therefore, if a coach or referee fails to take action to prevent an injury which could have been avoided, they can be held liable for the consequences. Examples of the duty of safety in Washington include making sure that the playing area is safe, that equipment is well-maintained, and that players adhere to rules and regulations. For instance, if there is a known danger on the field but the referee doesn’t do anything to address it, then they could be liable for any injuries that occur as a result. Similarly, if a coach allows players to play with inadequate or faulty equipment or does not enforce the rules of the game, they could be held liable for any injuries that occur. Ultimately, the “duty of safety” serves to protect athletes from potential harm and to hold those in charge accountable for their negligence or recklessness. It is a reminder of the responsibility that comes with organizing any sporting event and highlights the importance of doing everything possible to ensure that participants remain safe.

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What is the “duty of safety” in sports injury cases?

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