Sports can be dangerous for even the most seasoned athlete. But in recent years, winter sports have taken a hit for their injuries and fatalities. According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), there were 42 reported fatal accidents in the 2018-2019 ski and snowboarding season.
The majority of those incidents were a result of a collision with other skiers and snowboarders on the slope, the snow surface or trees. The NSAA also reports that more than 95% of those fatalities were male.
While safety gear exists like helmets and other protective items, some individuals continue to not wear these items. With January being National Safety Month for ski and snowboarding resorts, we at Fellerman & Ciarimboli want to share what you can do if you fall victim to a winter sports accident.
Some of the most common injuries with skiing and snowboarding include:
- Knee injury
- Concussions
- Ligament damage, AKA Skier’s Thumb
- Wrist and arm injuries
- Ankle fractures
The most common causes of injury while skiing or snowboarding are a result of:
- Skiing or snowboarding above your ability level
- Improper or faulty equipment such as defective skis, poles, boots or bindings
- Skier or snowboarder fatigue
- Skiing or snowboarding off-trail or in closed areas
- Failure to observe posted warning signs by the mountain responsibility conduct code
Depending on the type and circumstances of your ski accident, the resort, equipment manufacturer or another skier may be responsible for your injuries.
Though Not a Collision Sport, Collisions Can Occur.
Skiing and snowboarding come with risk. But you do not assume the risk of another skier or snowboarders’ negligence. Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death for skiers and collisions are a primary cause of that type of injury.
Ski Resort Negligence
Ski resorts have a responsibility to their patrons to provide a safe environment for winter slopes. This includes well-maintained trails and slopes, lighting, marketing, and keeping machinery in working order. When they do not, they can be held responsible for your injuries.
Ski resort employees may also be at fault for an accident, such as when a ski lift operator fails to turn off the lift in an emergency situation.
Contact Our Ski Injury Lawyers
Lawsuits regarding skiing and snowboarding accidents can be complex. A fatality on the slopes may result in a wrongful death claim if negligence by the resort is present. Our trusted attorneys at Fellerman and Ciarimboli can help determine who the responsible parties are and what damages you may be able to recoup.
It’s important to act quickly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing accident, the personal injury lawyers at Fellerman & Ciarimboli can help you get the compensation you deserve for your ski resort injuries. To schedule your free consultation, contact us today.
