Ski Accidents: What You Need to Know

Skiing is a thrilling winter sport enjoyed by millions, but it comes with inherent risks. From collisions on the slopes to ski lift malfunctions, accidents can happen unexpectedly, leading to serious injuries. 

When a ski accident occurs due to negligence—whether by another skier, a resort, or faulty equipment—victims may be entitled to compensation.

At Morgan & Morgan, we understand the complexities of ski accident claims. For over 35 years, we have fought For the People in pursuit of justice for personal injury victims, and we’ve recovered over $25 billion in the process.

Find out if we can help your case, too. Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation.

What to Do After a Ski Accident

A ski accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims unsure of what to do next. Whether the accident happens on the slopes, a ski lift, or due to another skier’s negligence, taking the right steps can protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation. Here’s what you should do after a ski accident:

• Seek Medical Attention – Your health is the priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Report the Accident – Notify ski patrol or resort management. They may file an incident report, which could be useful later.
• Document the Scene – Take photos or videos of the accident location, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions.
• Gather Witness Information – If anyone saw the accident, collect their contact details and statements.
• Preserve Evidence – Keep your ski equipment as it was at the time of the accident. Damaged gear can serve as evidence.
• Avoid Admitting Fault – Do not make statements that could be used against you, even if you feel partially responsible.
• Contact Morgan & Morgan – Ski accident claims can be complex. A lawyer can help you determine liability and pursue compensation.

Types of Ski Accidents

Skiing is inherently risky, but certain types of accidents occur more frequently than others. Some common ski accidents include:

Collisions With Other Skiers

These accidents happen when skiers or snowboarders collide due to reckless behavior, lack of control, or failure to follow slope etiquette.

Ski Lift Accidents

Ski lift accidents can occur due to malfunctioning equipment, improper operation, or passengers falling while boarding or exiting.

Slips and Falls on Slopes

Icy patches, poor trail maintenance, and improperly marked hazards can lead to severe falls.

Equipment Malfunction

Faulty or poorly maintained ski equipment, such as bindings that fail to release properly, can lead to injuries.

Avalanches

While less common, avalanches can be deadly, especially in backcountry skiing where safety measures are less controlled.

Poorly Marked Trails or Obstacles

Unmarked hazards, such as exposed rocks or sudden drops, can catch skiers off guard and lead to severe accidents.

Types of Injuries in Ski Accidents

Ski accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. The most common ski-related injuries include:

Head Injuries

Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common, especially when skiers are not wearing helmets.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Falls or high-speed collisions can cause severe spinal injuries, leading to paralysis or long-term disability.

Knee Injuries

ACL and MCL tears are among the most common ski injuries due to sudden twisting motions or falls.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Skiers frequently suffer broken legs, arms, wrists, and collarbones from falls or collisions.

Dislocations

Shoulder dislocations often occur when skiers fall and try to catch themselves with their arms.

Hypothermia and Frostbite

If a skier is immobilized for an extended period, exposure to extreme cold can lead to severe injuries.

Areas With the Most Ski Lift Accidents

Ski lift accidents can occur anywhere, but some areas report higher incidents due to the volume of skiers, age of infrastructure, and maintenance issues. Some locations with notable ski lift accidents include:

• Colorado – With world-renowned ski resorts like Vail and Breckenridge, Colorado sees a high number of ski lift accidents each year.
• Utah – Home to Park City and Snowbird, Utah experiences its share of ski lift malfunctions and injuries.
• California – Resorts like Mammoth Mountain and Lake Tahoe attract millions of visitors, increasing accident risk.
• Vermont – With its old and new resorts, Vermont sees various ski lift incidents, including mechanical failures.
• Montana and Wyoming – Less populated but home to extreme conditions, these states have experienced severe ski lift accidents.

What Are Common Laws for Skiers and Resorts?

Common ski laws vary by state and country, but they generally focus on skier responsibility, resort liability, and safety regulations. Here are some of the most common ski laws:

Skier Responsibility Codes

Most ski resorts follow a Skier Responsibility Code, which outlines the basic safety rules for skiers and snowboarders. While the wording may vary, the principles are largely the same:

• Yield to others: Skiers must always maintain control and be able to stop or avoid collisions.
• Right of way: The skier downhill has the right of way; those uphill must yield.
• No stopping in blind spots: Skiers should not stop in areas where they obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
• Look uphill before merging: When entering a trail or starting downhill, skiers must look uphill and yield.
• Use proper equipment: Functional brakes and retention devices are required to prevent runaway skis or boards.
• Observe signs and closures: Skiers must follow all posted signs, including warnings about terrain, slow zones, or closed areas.
• Know how to use ski lifts safely: Loading, riding, and unloading must be done properly to prevent accidents.

Ski Resort Liability and Waivers

Most ski resorts require visitors to sign a liability waiver when purchasing a lift ticket. However:

• These waivers do not always fully protect resorts from negligence claims (failure to maintain ski lifts, mark hazards, or train employees properly).
• Many states have inherent risk laws, which mean skiers accept some level of risk when participating in the sport.

Ski Lift Safety Regulations

Ski lifts must comply with state and federal safety regulations, such as:

• Regular maintenance and inspections to prevent mechanical failures.
• Proper employee training for lift operators.
• Emergency response procedures for evacuations.
• Reporting requirements for ski lift accidents and injuries.

Reckless Skiing and Collisions

In many states, reckless skiing that results in injury can be treated similarly to reckless driving. Common legal consequences include:

• Fines or penalties for reckless behavior.
• Civil liability if someone is injured in a collision.
• In severe cases, criminal charges for negligence or reckless endangerment.

Alcohol and Drug Use on Slopes

Most ski resorts prohibit skiing under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some states treat intoxicated skiing similarly to DUI laws, with penalties if an impaired skier causes injury.

Avalanche Safety and Liability

Backcountry skiing carries additional risks, and certain areas have avalanche laws that:

• Require skiers to carry proper avalanche safety gear (beacons, probes, shovels).
• Hold skiers accountable for triggering avalanches that endanger others.
• Protect ski patrol from liability when performing avalanche control measures.

Equipment Requirements

Some states, like New York, have laws requiring children under a certain age to wear helmets while skiing or snowboarding.

Can I Sue a Ski Resort?

Yes, you can sue a ski resort, but it depends on the circumstances of the injury or incident. Ski resorts are generally not held liable for accidents that occur due to the inherent risks of skiing or snowboarding (like colliding with other skiers or losing control). However, if your injury was caused by the resort's negligence—such as poor maintenance of equipment, failure to warn about hazards, or improper signage—you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Here are a few potential situations where you could sue a ski resort:

• Negligent Maintenance: If the resort failed to properly maintain the slopes, equipment, or lifts, you must prove that it contributed to your injury.
• Inadequate Safety Measures: If the resort didn’t have proper safety protocols in place, such as insufficient signs to warn about dangerous conditions.
• Injuries from Malfunctioning Equipment: If rental equipment was faulty and caused an accident, you might have a case for a product liability lawsuit.
• Inadequate Staff Training: If employees are not properly trained to operate lifts or manage the resort's activities, and their negligence led to your injury.

If you’re considering taking legal action, it's important to review any waivers or releases you may have signed when purchasing your lift ticket or renting equipment, as these can sometimes limit your ability to sue. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in personal injury or ski accident cases would be a good next step to assess your situation.

What Is the Legal Process for Ski Accident Claims?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a ski accident, understanding the legal process can help you navigate your claim effectively. Here are the key steps:

1. Determining Liability

Ski accident liability depends on several factors:

• Ski Resort Negligence – If the accident was due to poor maintenance, faulty equipment, or inadequate safety measures, the resort could be held responsible.
• Another Skier’s Negligence – If another skier collided with you due to reckless behavior, they may be liable.
• Equipment Malfunction – If defective ski gear caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held accountable.

2. Filing an Injury Claim

A personal injury claim can be filed against the responsible party. This involves:

• Collecting evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and photos.
• Calculating damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

3. Negotiation and Settlement

Many ski accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations with the responsible party or their insurance company.

4. Going to Trial

If a fair settlement is not reached, the case may go to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Ski Accident Case?

Ski accident cases can be complex, and having an experienced attorney at Morgan & Morgan can make a significant difference. Here’s why you should consider hiring a lawyer:

• Determining Liability – An attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine who is responsible.
• Negotiating With Insurance Companies – Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can fight for fair compensation.
• Understanding Ski Resort Liability Waivers – Many resorts require skiers to sign waivers, but these do not always absolve the resort from liability.
• Calculating Damages – An attorney ensures that all medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages are accounted for.
• Taking the Case to Court – If necessary, a lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in trial.

At Morgan & Morgan, our team of experienced ski accident attorneys is dedicated to protecting the rights of injured skiers across the country. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a ski accident, contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.