Are Ski Resorts Liable for Accidents?

Are Ski Resorts Liable for Accidents?

When an accident occurs at a ski resort because of the establishment’s negligence, those affected by the accident can hold the resort liable for any damages. Ski resorts are liable for accidents when they fail to uphold a reasonable duty of care. If you experience a ski resort accident, it is important to fully understand liability so you can secure the compensation you deserve.

When Are Ski Resorts Liable for Accidents?

Data from the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) shows that there were 53 catastrophic injuries in NSAA ski areas during the 2022-’23 season. While some skiing accidents do result from individuals taking undue risks, ski resort negligence has a hand in many accidents.

Ski resorts are liable for accidents when:

• They neglect to maintain the slopes, trails, lifts or other equipment
• Resort staff is insufficient or poorly trained
• There was no signage to warn skiers of safety risks

Skiing is an activity that comes with certain inherent risks. If the conditions at a ski resort introduce additional risks that should be avoidable through reasonable action, then the resort may bear some or all of the liability when an accident occurs.

Can You Sue a Ski Resort for an Accident?

Yes, you can sue a ski resort for an accident that occurs on its premises. Keep in mind that, as the plaintiff, the burden is on you and your legal team to prove that the resort or its staff was guilty of negligence when your accident occurred.

You must also prove that you suffered damages as a result of the accident and establish a link between those damages and the resort’s negligence. Thorough documentation and organized medical records can help demonstrate this link to the court.

In a premises liability lawsuit, you can pursue compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages and permanent injury or disability. If the resort is willing to offer a reasonable settlement after negotiation or mediation, it may not be necessary to take the matter to court to cover your damages.

Should You Call a Lawyer After a Ski Resort Accident?

It is definitely worth your while to consult with a lawyer after a ski resort accident. Skiing is a dangerous activity, making the matter of liability particularly complex. Without legal representation, the other party might try to shift the blame onto you and claim that the accident was your fault entirely.

A Phoenix premises liability attorney can help your case by:

• Investigating the cause of your skiing accident
• Collecting evidence to establish the ski resort’s liability
• Negotiating with insurance providers and other lawyers on your behalf
• Representing you in court if necessary

At Sargon Law Group, we represent injured skiers in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Colorado. Keep in mind that the statute of limitations for premises liability cases is two years in Arizona, California and Colorado. In New Mexico, the statute of limitations is three years. While this seems like a generous amount of time, it is important to contact your attorney and start the claims process as soon as possible.

Contact a Premises Liability Lawyer After a Ski Resort Accident

Ski resort injuries can be devastating, whether you were on the slopes or had a slip-and-fall in a resort building.  You need a legal team of experienced Phoenix injury attorneys that can even the playing field and prove when ski resorts are liable for accidents on their premises. Contact us today to learn more about how the premises liability attorneys at Sargon Law Group can help you.