Prior to the 2018 National Football League (NFL) season, the league administration introduced two rules aimed at preventing concussions: Players are no longer allowed to “wedge” block — players running shoulder-to-shoulder into another player — during kick-offs, and they can’t lower their helmets when they tackle. A HEAD ABOVE
THE NFL’S NEWEST RULE CHANGES TO DECREASE CONCUSSIONS
number of reported concussions was 135 compared to 190 from the year prior.
However, it’s worth noting that 2017 saw high recorded rates of concussions. Figures going as far back as 2012 indicate that 2017 was one of the most concussed years in recent football history. Still, NFL and medical officials point to 2018’s decrease in concussions as a positive sign that league initiatives are working. Officials say the new rules helped push the numbers down, and the use of more sideline concussion protocol testing and increased advanced helmet technology aided in this boost. The NFL reported that 74% of its players were now wearing its latest protective headgear, a 33% increase from 2017. According to USA Today, the NFL’s chief medical officer, Dr. Allen Sills, also indicated that medical teams across the league performed more sideline concussion tests than any year prior and saw a 75% decrease in diagnosing. The league is considering testing mouthguard technology that would give medical teams more information for diagnosing concussions. As we prepare for another season of football, there’s no telling what 2019’s numbers will show about the NFL’s latest safety protocols, but if 2018 was any indication, they just might be headed in the right direction.
Fans and players complained about the “soft” stance the NFL took on the gritty play football was built on. Most notably, former Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews was subjected to a game-costing “roughing the passer” penalty for tackling in a way that would have been
allowed in years prior. The NFL reported that it would be using Matthews’ hit as a teaching tape. Despite the backlash, offseason reports may suggest that these rules have influenced concussion rates. The NFL reported a 24% decline in the number of concussions between the 2017 and 2018 seasons, lowering the total from 281 in 2017 to 214 in 2018 when combined with preseason play. In the regular season alone, the
BACK TO THE BUS SAFETY TIPS FOR SMART COMMUTING THIS SCHOOL YEAR
a driver, watch for increased foot and two-wheeled traffic, and honor the right of way.
At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we support victims after accidents, but we also value taking precautions to avoid collisions. While kids shuffle back into classrooms, increased traffic will make morning commutes more hazardous. Avoid a costly accident by following these back-to-school commuting tips to make all your travels safe this school year.
Bus Better
Hit the Road
As buses fill your neighborhoods, consider alternate
As your teens join the throngs of drivers each morning, make sure they understand safety precautions of morning commutes. Teach them to leave early to account for traffic, avoid texting or eating, and limit the number of passengers in their vehicle. Prior to the school year, drive their route with them and consider downloading apps to track their driving habits.
routes to work or leave your home earlier. Additionally, if you have new drivers in your home, walk them through bus safety and right of way laws, including stopping whenever they see a bus with an extended stop sign and following at a safe distance. As for your little riders, remind kids about bus safety. They should always remain seated while the bus is moving, never cross the street until the bus driver says so, and wear their seatbelts if the bus has any. Despite all the precautions you can take, accidents happen. The legal experts at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. can help you and your family get the compensation you deserve after an accident. Learn more about your options at PuttingPeopleFirst.law and inquire about a consultation by calling 229-888-0888.
Walk This Way
If your kids live close to school, consider having them bike or walk to school! Make sure kids wear visible clothing, teach them to look both ways before crossing streets, and pair them up with a neighborhood buddy. For more peace of mind, walk your child’s route with them before school starts. They will learn where to go and what to expect, and you will know all the obstacles and how long it takes them to get home. If you’re
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