Skiing and snowboarding are popular hobbies across the world. Unfortunately, both activities come with their own inherent risks. As such, many people assume there is little or no cause of action when someone is injured in a ski or snowboarding accident. The fact is, under the legal theory of negligence, many common ski and snowboard accidents fall squarely under the heading of personal injury liability.
Injuries sustained in skiing and snowboarding accidents can run the gamut, ranging from minor bumps and bruises to fractured bones, brain injuries, or even critical harm and death. (A recent CDC study found an increase in traumatic brain and spinal cord injury resulting from skiing and snowboarding accidents nationwide, and children and adolescents were found to be those most affected.)
Many times, those injuries come at the hands of others or as the result of the neglect of others. Under personal injury law, the injured party has the right to compensation for medical treatment, loss of wages and earning potential, pain and suffering and more. Collisions with other skiers or snowboarders, falls or collisions with fences or barriers, chair lift accidents and defective equipment can all lead to painful injuries on the slopes and a personal injury claim may be warranted to secure appropriate medical care and redress for your injuries.
Proving fault in these cases run a myriad of legal strategies. For example, a reckless snowboarder that runs head-on into others and causes injuries may be responsible for another's injuries. Under the theory of premises liability, a ski lodge proprietor who failed to properly maintain the course could be responsible for your injuries, pain and suffering; Under defective products law, the manufacturer and distributor of a malfunctioning ski lift that injures its passengers could also be held liable for damages. The number of legal theories on which to base a personal injury claim in these cases are many. And the circumstances under which you may be eligible for damages vary.
Recovering damages in these cases can prove complex. That is why it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can carefully examine your case and determine the best course of action to follow to achieve the highest award possible in these cases.
The skilled attorneys at Panio Law Offices are experienced in all areas of personal injury law and fight to ensure our clients receive the highest rewards.
If you have questions about a personal injury case and would like a free consultation, please call (708) 928-8680. We can help.