NFL Painkiller Lawsuit Allowed to Proceed

Oct 19,2018

Four years after a judge dismissed a proposed class-action brought by retired NFL players over damage from painkillers taken during their careers, an appeals court has reinstated the suit. The suit was originally filed by former Chicago Bears players, who claimed that team-aided use of prescription painkillers caused them to suffer permanent injuries and/or addiction to opioids.

The 2014 lawsuit claimed that players were subjected to a “culture of drug misuse,” including opioids, local anesthetics and other prescription medications. The players alleged that team doctors gave them these medications so they could continue to play when they were injured.

A federal judge dismissed the case after determining that the players’ collective bargaining agreement with NFL owners preempted the players’ complaints. However, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco has overturned that ruling. The players will now have the opportunity to present their case in court.

The NFL holds that the claims made by the players were rightfully dismissed in the past, and they dispute the allegations made in the lawsuit.

“In light of the current opioid crisis in this country, it is time for organizations who misuse these drugs to take responsibility for the damage caused,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a drug and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.