liability policy direct from LL

[D62 blue]

now this is an eye opener !!!! to anyone at any level who isnt already in the habit of asking the question at the plate meeting EVERY TIME . "are all of youre players properly equipped for LL,Pony,HS(whatever level or league) baseball for this game today" . and you must get a VERBAL YES from both . and take the time to check ALL hats/bats/catcher gear , being used for this game today . and if youre assoc. or league UIC has other safety procedures , follow them as well . a couple of extra minutes of time cost nothing , compared to what could happen , read this statement below .

"Others have eluded to this here, but only after I posted a request on LLB's Facebook board did I get an answer directly from them. I had asked for clarification on what LLB's stance was if an umpire knowingly ignored a safety rule, and someone got hurt.

I've been looking for something along these lines to use when I am discussing this issue with board members of local leagues. So, the following, you have via their post on their Facebook discussion board earlier today."

"The accident policy states coverage is in place when "in compliance with Little League Regulations," so volunteers purposely not in compliance put themselves and other members (including children) at risk for coverage.

In a lawsuit, you may possibly have no coverage for intentional acts such as in your example. If that's the case, those injured are likely to sue to have their expenses covered by those responsible for knowingly violating the rules: the umpires, the other manager and other coaches in the league, the officers and members of the Board, the District Administrator, etc.

There may also be punitive damages, which are not covered by insurance in most states by law. Punitive damage awards are meant as a punishment. In essence you knew it was wrong did it anyway and someone was injured—so those found negligent pay the award out of pocket as a punishment, and not the insurance company. Otherwise, it would not be a punishment or deterrent.

Juries and/or judges make these decisions. Those directly involved (such as umpires, managers, coaches, etc.) and indirectly (such as officers and board members) who know they are acting outside the rules and do not stop the practice are the ones at risk.

The risk is far too great, and for what? A little inconvenience?

With choice comes responsibility and accountability for your actions. You are right to refuse to allow those things to happen in the games you officiate.

Yes, the coach might be dismayed when you tell him his catcher must wear a mask and helmet during infield practice. Just keep in the back of your head, that coach is probably not going to be willing to pay your portion of a multi-million dollar damages suit if the child is hurt.

More importantly, keep in mind that your action is keeping a kid safe."

this information was posted on my local group blog . i copied it directly from the op . it is direct from LLB , as stated . its not worth it to cut corners .

d62 blue

Edited June 6, 2010 by D62 blue

[Umpire in Chief]

It is only going to get worse. Too many people think the court system is their shot to riches. The odds are better than the lottery.