Because El Niño is here for the first few months of 2016, the people of San Jose can expect to see much more snow on the ski slopes. As a result, many people will enjoy their weekends snowboarding and skiing with close friends and family. While snow sports can be very entertaining, they can become extremely dangerous as well.
In fact, a study published by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention states there has been a large increase in the amount of spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries due to snowboarding and skiing accidents. Additionally, snowboarding accounts for more damages than all other outdoor activities.
Can I File a Lawsuit After a Snowboarding Accident?
In most cases, the person snowboarding or skiing is held responsible for his or her own injuries. However, there are a few situations where a person may be able to file a lawsuit against the slope owner or equipment rental business. Below are some of the most common types of accidents that occur when snowboarding or skiing:
- Collisions with other slope users
- Collisions with manmade snowmakers, trees, barriers, signs, or fences
- Unmaintained ski lifts
- Accidents due to improper instruction from snowboarding or skiing instructors
- Accidents due to flawed or broken equipment
A snowboarder or skier may be able to file a lawsuit if they are able to prove the negligence of another party caused them injury or harm. Below is a list of claims a snowboarder or skier may be able to make:
- The skier or snowboarder was hurt because another snowboarder or skier was behaving recklessly and negligently
- The slopes on which the skier or snowboarder was riding were inadequately marked, designed, or maintained
- An instructor led a skier or snowboarder into terrain beyond that person’s capability
These types of cases can be complicated since snowboarders and skiers are participating in an inherently risky sport. However, in some cases, a person can recover monetary compensation for their injuries if they can prove a defective product or improperly maintained property caused their harm. Because these types of cases are complicated, it is wise to consult legal counsel as soon as possible.
Think You May Have a Premises Liability or Defective Product Case? Contact Our Firm!
If you have sustained injuries in an accident and believe another person or entity should be held liable for your damages, contact our San Jose personal injury lawyers at Habbas & Associates right away. We can examine your injuries, the cause of your harm, and all other details of your case to help you pursue financial compensation. When you work with our team, we will let you focus on the physical recovery while we take care of all the complicated legal matters!
To speak with a San Jose personal injury attorney, contact Habbas & Associates! We put experience and dedication on your side of the courtroom!
