It depends. Think of skiing and snowboarding as you would if you were driving your car. There are rules of the road codified in state laws. Typically if you violate a traffic law and cause an accident while driving you will be held legally responsible for any injuries and property damage that you cause. If you are skiing or snowboarding and you violate the skier’s responsibility code you may very well be found to be negligent and responsible for any personal injuries or property damage that you cause.
If you have been injured while skiing or snowboarding in Vermont due to the carelessness of another skier or snowboarder you may have a viable personal injury claim. Please call me for a free consultation. My phone number is [nap_phone id=”LOCAL-REGULAR-NUMBER-1″]. Please note there is a one year statute of limitations for skier/snowboarder injury cases in Vermont.
If someone has breached the skier responsibility code as noted below you should find out if you have a decent case or not.
Protect yourself, protect others. With common sense and the seven points of Your Responsibility Code, you can have a safer day on the slopes. The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) believes education, helmet use, respect and common sense are very important when cruising down the mountain. NSAA developed Your Responsibility Code to help skiers and boarders be aware that there are elements of risk in snowsports that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.
SEVEN POINTS TO YOUR RESPONSIBILITY CODE
Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.