Practice Areas

Can You Sue Another Skier for Causing an Accident?

Ski accidents are often caused by the reckless and out-of-control conduct of a skier or snowboarder who crashes into an in-control or stopped skier or snowboarder. These collisions can cause horrible injuries, paralysis, and even death. A skier or snowboarder who has been hit by another skier or snowboarder can sue the person for causing the crash. However, the law is protective of the person who caused the crash, and it is necessary to show that the at-fault skier’s or snowboarder’s conduct was egregious and beyond the scope of normal skiing and snowboarding.

If you were injured by another skier or snowboarder, it is important to consult a personal injury attorney who has familiarity with these types of cases, as the applicable law is much different than your typical automobile collision negligence case. At Porter Simon Sierra Injury Lawyers, we have the knowledge and experience to aid you with ski and snowboard collision cases.

Can You Sue a Ski Resort for an Accident?

Ski accidents can be devastating; you might be wondering if you can sue a ski resort for an accident. The answer is not always straightforward, but is worth exploring with the help of a ski accident attorney. Even if you signed a liability waiver before hitting the slopes, you may still have a valid case.

Ski resorts must ensure the safety of their guests. If they fail to do so, they may be held responsible. A ski accident attorney can review the details of your case, assess the possible wrongdoing of the resort, and determine if there are grounds for a lawsuit. Don’t be discouraged by the liability waiver you signed before consulting with a local ski injury lawyer.

If you believe a ski resort’s conduct caused your injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to a ski accident attorney from Porter Simon Sierra Injury Lawyers. We have the expertise and knowledge to navigate the complexities of ski accident cases. Our team can provide personalized advice based on your situation.

Our lawyers have intimate knowledge of skiing the local resorts and have litigated these cases for decades — we are uniquely qualified to anticipate potential challenges from the other side and build a solid case. Consultations are free, so you have nothing to lose by seeking legal guidance and exploring your options.

Premises Liability and Ski Resorts

When it comes to ski accidents, premises liability is a key aspect to consider, especially when it involves ski resorts. Ski resorts have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment for their guests. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for any injuries that happened on their premises. This is known as premises liability.

Examples of ski resort premises liability include:

• Slip and fall accidents in ski lodges: Believe it or not, slip and falls are the most common cause of unintentional deaths in the United States, according to the National Safety Council. Ski resorts can be held liable for slip and fall accidents that occur on their property, whether it’s due to icy walkways, wet floors, or other hazards.

Note that premises liability extends beyond the slopes. Even if you’re not actively skiing, you can still get injured at a ski resort due to their negligence in maintaining a safe environment. Slip and falls in the lodges or other accidents can result in severe injuries.

Can You Sue a Ski Equipment Manufacturer for an Accident?

Manufacturers of ski and snowboard equipment also have a duty to ensure their products are safe. If a defect in the equipment caused or contributed to a ski injury or snowboard accident, you may have a valid claim against the manufacturer. Simply getting injured while using skiing equipment doesn’t automatically mean the manufacturer is at fault.

The equipment must be proven to have a defect that caused the accident or worsened the injuries. This can include anything from faulty ski bindings or ski poles to a malfunctioning ski lift or helmet.

If you’ve been injured in a snowboard accident or ski crash, it’s crucial to keep the equipment. This way, it can be examined and potentially reviewed for any flaws that may have contributed to the accident or exacerbated your injuries. A ski accident lawyer can help determine if a defect was involved and assist you in pursuing a claim against the manufacturer.

What Do Accident Lawyers Do?

One of the primary tasks of accident lawyers is to assess the details of the ski accident and determine the potential liability of the other parties. Whether it’s another skier, ski resort, ski equipment manufacturer, or a similar person or entity, accident lawyers investigate the circumstances to identify who may be at fault. They gather relevant evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a compelling case.

Ski accident lawyers also handle the complicated process of dealing with insurance companies. They negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. They help ensure insurance companies don’t take advantage of you during the claims process.

In some cases, accident lawyers may need to represent their clients in trial. Although many ski accident cases are settled outside of court, there are instances where going to trial is necessary to secure fair compensation. Accident lawyers should have the litigation skills and experience to effectively present their clients’ cases in court and safeguard their legal rights.

Throughout the entire process, accident lawyers provide personalized advice and guidance by answering questions and addressing concerns. Five-star personal injury lawyers should keep you informed every step of the way.

How Much Do Ski Accident Lawyers Charge?

When hiring a ski accident lawyer, you may be wondering about the cost. Many ski accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case and secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of the total amount recovered. This fee structure means you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or paying legal fees if your case isn’t successful.

Hiring a ski accident lawyer can greatly increase your chances of a successful outcome and obtaining the compensation you deserve. Don’t let concerns about costs prevent you from seeking the legal help you need. Talk to a ski accident lawyer today to discuss your case and find out how they may be able to assist you.

How to Find a Ski Accident Lawyer Near Me?

When searching for a ski accident lawyer near you, it’s essential to find someone experienced in handling these claims and has a proven track record of success.

Look for testimonials and reviews from past clients to get a sense of their expertise and dedication. Additionally, finding an attorney familiar with athletics and skiing can greatly benefit your case, as they understand the unique complexities involved.

Another factor to consider is whether the lawyer can practice in multiple states. Ski accident lawyers near Lake Tahoe, for example, should be able to practice in Nevada and California. It’s important to have a lawyer who can navigate the laws and regulations of various jurisdictions.

At Porter Simon Sierra Injury Lawyers, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle ski accident cases in multiple states. One of our founding partners used to represent ski resorts, so we have unique insight into how they operate. We can leverage that knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation to discuss your ski accident case. We’re dedicated to helping victims seek the justice and compensation they deserve. We can be your trusted allies during this difficult time.

What Should I Do After a Ski Accident?

After a ski accident, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect your rights and ensure you have the best chance of obtaining compensation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do following a ski accident:

1. Get to safety and out of the way of other skiers to avoid further harm.

2. Remember that leaving the scene of a ski accident, just like a car crash, could be a crime. Exchange contact information with all parties involved (as many state laws demand).

3. Call ski patrol if necessary and give a statement about the accident.

4. Contact a premises liability lawyer. These lawyers can provide crucial legal guidance and support.

5. Take photos of the accident scene, including any hazardous conditions or lack of warning signs. This evidence may be the key to establishing a premises liability claim against the ski resort.

6. Keep your clothes and helmet. Gear can serve as potential evidence in a product liability claim if an equipment defect contributed to the accident.

7. Seek medical care, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent: Documenting them early on can make a difference for both your health and any future insurance claims.

8. Do not speak to the other parties’ insurance companies without consulting a ski accident lawyer first. Let the professionals handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on resting and healing.

By following these steps, you can protect your rights and ensure that you have the necessary evidence and documentation to support your ski accident claim. Remember to reach out to crash accident lawyers for personalized guidance and representation during this challenging time.

Common Injuries From Ski Accidents

Ski accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be quite serious.

Here are some of the most common injuries from ski accidents:

Catastrophic Injuries

Ski accidents can sometimes result in catastrophic injuries, which are severe and life-altering. According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), there were 53 catastrophic injury claims in the 2022-2023 season alone. These injuries can include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and severe fractures.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

In recreational skiing, the most likely cause of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is colliding with trees. Long-term impacts of TBIs include increased risks of neurodegenerative diseases, among daily struggles. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries: It’s vital to always ski with proper safety equipment.

When not on the slopes, slip and fall accidents at ski resorts may also pose a problem. Inaccurate signage, icy walkways, poorly maintained staircases, and more could lead to a slip-and-fall brain injury.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Similar to traumatic brain injuries, slip and fall accidents can also cause spinal cord injuries. These injuries can result in paralysis or loss of motor function, drastically affecting the victim’s quality of life.

Soft Tissue and Ligament Injuries

Twisting or hyperextending a joint during a fall can cause soft tissue and ligament injuries, such as sprains or strains. These injuries can be painful and may require extensive rehabilitation to fully recover.

Knee Injuries

The knees are particularly vulnerable during ski accidents. Common knee injuries include ACL tears or sprains, fractured patellas, and a torn meniscus. These injuries can be debilitating and may require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.

Broken Bones

Fractures are a common outcome of ski accidents, particularly in areas like the wrist, arm, or leg. These injuries can be painful and may require immobilization or surgery to heal properly.

Wrist, Hand, or Thumb Injuries

Falling on an outstretched hand can result in injuries to the wrist, hand, or thumb. Skier’s Thumb is a tear in the ulnar collateral ligament. This hand injury often occurs when falling while holding a skiing pole.

Death

In some tragic cases, ski accidents can result in fatalities. If a loved one has died as a result of a ski accident, seek the advice of a wrongful death lawyer to understand possible legal options.

FAQs: Stats on Skiing Accidents

How many ski injuries per year occur?

According to a report by Johns Hopkins, an estimated 600,000 ski injuries occur each year. This includes a range of injuries from minor sprains to more serious fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Skiing can be a thrilling sport, but we must always remember the potential risks involved.

By taking necessary precautions and staying alert on the slopes, you can reduce the likelihood of a skiing accident. If you do find yourself injured in a ski accident, call a ski accident lawyer for guidance and support.

How many ski deaths per year occur?

According to the NSAA, the 2021/22 ski season saw 46 fatalities on US ski slopes. Additionally, from 2013 to 2023, there were 243 avalanche fatalities in the US, also reported by the NSAA. These numbers highlight the unfortunate reality of ski accidents and the potential risks involved in the sport.

If you lost a loved one in a ski accident, consult with a wrongful death lawyer who can provide guidance and support during this difficult time.