RECENT INJURIES IN THE NFL SHED LIGHT ON THE IMPORTANCE OF DISABILITY INSURANCE
As many fans know, there are some definite cringe-worthy moments during each football game when no one knows the fate of their favorite player. Some athletes will have the option of returning to football while others may have to choose a new career path.
Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker DeVonte Hollomanis one of those who will not be able to return to the game he loves. A spinal injury has ended his career much to everyone’s dismay. He was advised by top-notch team physicians to not play football anymore since doing so could lead to a worsening injury and eventual paralysis. (Dallas Morning News, Dallas Cowboys LB DeVonte Holloman’s career finished because of spinal injury, August 21, 2014)
Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict recentlyinjured his hamstring but will be back in the game sometime down the road. Coaches are not sure when he will be able to return but he’ll have time to heal up and make his way back onto the field. College players like quarterback Braxton Miller of the Ohio State Buckeyes should also be aware of the need for insurance. After his recent shoulder surgery, he needs to stay healthy in order continue his football career in the NFL (Bleacher Report, Vontaze Burfict Injury: Updates on Bengals LB’s Hamstring and Return, August 24, 2014).
“As with many sports, football players will be surrounded by injuries throughout their time on the field,” states Frank N. Darras, America’s disability insurance lawyer to the pros. “Football is a rough and tumble sport, meaning serious injuries may not be common place but they are not unexpected. Most professional athletes know they have a significant chance of a career-ending injury, which is why most should invest in a disability insurance policy.”
Disability insurance policies pay benefits to the policyholder if they are injured and cannot work. With a serious injury just a tackle away, NFL athletes should protect their income in order to safeguard their future.Many pro athletes will invest in own-occupation insurance so they can collect disability benefits while they work at a new job off the field.
“These latest injuries show athletes will always be in some form of danger when playing the game, even during practice. You can never be too prepared so get in touch with your insurance agent before you risk losing your sole source of income to a debilitating injury. DeVonte Holloman’s situation is an example of how quickly things can change so take care not to be caught unexpectedly,” says Darras (The Dallas Morning News, Dallas Cowboys LB DeVonte Holloman’s career finished because of spinal injury, August 21, 2014).