Ski & Snowboard Accident

Skiing offers an exciting way to enjoy the winter season, but it is not without risks. Each year, accidents on the slopes lead to injuries. Proper preparation and awareness can help reduce these incidents. National Ski Safety Awareness Month encourages all skiers to prioritize safety while enjoying the sport.  
 
At Fielding Law, we understand the importance of taking proactive measures to reduce the risk of accidents. By following these expert-recommended smart ski tips, you can protect yourself and others and make the most of your time on the mountain. Stay informed, stay prepared, and ski with confidence.    

Essential Ski Safety Tips for Injury Prevention  

The thrill of the slopes is truly unmatched, but safety should come before the exciting adventure. By following these essential tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury.  

1. Wear Proper Gear: Choose gear that fits properly and meets safety standards. Essential items include a certified helmet, insulated clothing, goggles, and gloves. These are non-negotiable or protection and comfort. 
2. Check Your Equipment: Before hitting the slopes, ensure your skis, bindings, and boots are in good condition and adjusted to your level. Faulty gear can cause preventable accidents.  
3. Carry a First-Aid Kit: Even seasoned skiers experience mishaps. Prepare for minor injuries with a compact first-aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. 
4. Learn the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the resort’s rules and trail markers. Responsible skiing involves yielding to others, obeying signs, and staying within designated areas. 
5. Be Aware of Conditions: Weather and snow conditions can change quickly. Check trail updates and adjust your plans to avoid icy patches, low visibility, or dangerous terrain.  

What to Do in Case of an Accident 

If a ski accident occurs, knowing what steps to take can significantly impact recovery and resolution.  

1. Move off the slope. If possible, leave the slope to avoid oncoming skiers and prevent further injuries. Staying in harm’s way could endanger yourself and others.  
2. Call ski patrol and seek medical help immediately. Addressing injuries promptly is crucial. Even if the injuries seem minor, hidden complications can arise later. The ski patrol can assess the situation and assist.  
3. Document the incident thoroughly. Record every detail, including how the accident occurred and surrounding weather conditions. Take photographs if you can, as they may serve as critical evidence. Gather contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened.  
4. Contact Fielding Law for guidance. After addressing concerns, reach out for expert legal advice. Our team will help protect your rights, navigate the legal process, and support your recovery.  

Recover Confidently and Enjoy the Slopes 

Skiing should be both enjoyable and safe for everyone. Take these smart ski tips, and you can reduce risks and make the most of your time on the slopes. When accidents occur, they can feel overwhelming. However, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone.  
 
Fielding Law’s highly skilled team understands the complexities of personal injury cases. With our support, you can focus on recovery while we work to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation. Stay safe and have fun!  

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Most people do not realize that homeowners’ or renters’ insurance can cover accidents on ski slopes. These policies often include “no-fault” medical payments and liability coverage, which pay for injuries caused by negligence. If someone else causes your injury while skiing or snowboarding, their insurance may cover your medical expenses and other damages.

How Homeowner’s and Renter’s Insurance Works

Homeowner’s and renter’s policies offer two key types of coverage for skiing and snowboarding accidents:

Liability Coverage: If someone causes an accident, their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may cover your injuries. This coverage helps with medical bills, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.

Medical Payments Coverage (Med Pay): Med Pay covers medical expenses up to a limit, even if no one is at fault. Typical limits range from $1,000 to $5,000.

If the cost of injuries exceeds these limits, umbrella insurance can provide extra coverage.

How the Claims Process Works

After a skiing or snowboarding accident, the claims process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies. Here is a breakdown of how the process typically unfolds:

Reporting the Incident: The first step is reporting the accident to the responsible party’s insurance company. In the case of a ski accident, this would likely be the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance of the skier or snowboarder who caused the accident.

Filing a Claim: After reporting the incident, a claim is opened. The insurance company will review the details, including witness statements, medical reports, and accident circumstances. It is important to gather all necessary evidence, such as photos of the accident, medical records, and any police or incident reports from the ski resort.

Insurance Investigation: The insurance company investigates the accident to determine fault and assess the damages. This may involve reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, or conducting site inspections.

Negotiating Compensation: Once liability is established, the next step is negotiating a settlement. This often requires legal assistance to ensure you receive fair compensation. The amount may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and additional damages depending on the severity of the injury.

Settlement: After negotiation, the insurance company offers a settlement. If the compensation covers your needs, the claim is resolved. If not, further legal action may be necessary.

Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly improve your chances of getting fair compensation. They will guide you through every step of the claims process, ensuring your rights are protected and that insurance companies do not shortchange you.

How to Use These Policies After an Accident

After a skiing or snowboarding accident, if the at-fault party has homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, you can file a claim. Here is how:

• Medical Bills: Med Pay covers immediate medical costs like doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care.
• Liability Claims: If another person’s negligence caused the accident, their insurance can help pay for long-term treatments, surgeries, lost wages, and emotional distress.
• Umbrella Coverage: If damages exceed policy limits, umbrella insurance can provide additional funds. This coverage helps in cases with severe injuries.

Real-World Example: One of Fielding Law’s Recent Cases

We recently represented a client involved in an accident at Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff, Coconino County. While snowboarding, a skier collided with her, causing her to fall and fracture her wrist. She required two surgeries. Fortunately, the defendant skier’s parents had homeowner’s insurance, which covered her injuries since their son was at fault. She recovered $151,000: $100,000 from the homeowner’s policy, $1,000 from Med Pay, and $50,000 from an umbrella policy.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If a skiing or snowboarding accident injured you, Fielding Law can help. We specialize in personal injury cases and will fight for your compensation. Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule a free consultation today.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.