Washington State Concussion Law

On May 14, 2009 the Governor of Washington Christine Gregoire signed the Zackery Lystedt Law. Effective July 26, 2009, the Lystedt Law directly affects youth sports and head injury policies particularly how you, as a coach, need to respond to player injuries. The new law requires that:

1. An informed consent must be signed by parents and youth athletes acknowledging the risk of head injury prior to practice or competition
2. A youth athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury must be removed from play – “when in doubt, sit them out”
3. A youth athlete who has been removed from play must receive written clearance from a licensed health care provider prior to returning to play

THE FACTS

• A concussion is a brain injury.
• All concussions are serious.
• Concussions can occur without loss of consciousness.
• Concussions can occur in any sport.
• Recognition and proper management of concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury or even death.

Read more: Coach's Concussion Resources Fact Sheet

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is an injury that changes how the cells in the brain normally work. A concussion is caused by a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. Concussions can also result from a fall or from players colliding with each other or with obstacles, such as a goalpost, even if they do not directly hit their head.

The potential for concussions is greatest in athletic environments where collisions are common. Concussions can occur, however, in any organized or unorganized sport or recreational activity. As many as 3.8 million sports and recreation-related concussions occur in the United States each year.

Read more: Parent's Concussion Resources Fact Sheet