Millions of Brits hit the slopes each year and recent reports show that participation is returning to pre-pandemic levels. While it is great that more people are enjoying winter sports, skiing remains an ‘extreme sport’ with a higher level of risk than many others.

If the worst happens and you or a family member are injured, it’s important to know your rights. In many cases, you will be able to make a personal injury claim.

5 Tips to Reduce the Risk of a Ski Accident Claim

While you can’t prevent dangerous skiing or snowboarding by others, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk of injury on the slopes:

  1. Wear a helmet:

  • Wearing a helmet while skiing can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.
  • Studies have shown that helmet use decreases the likelihood of head injuries by approximately 35% in adults and up to 59% in children.
  • In many ski areas, it is a legal requirement to wear a safety helmet. Failing to do so could have a negative impact on any future personal injury claim.

2. Ski within your limits

  • Choose slopes that match your skill level.
  • Avoid excessive speed and reckless manoeuvres.
  • Stay aware of other skiers and follow slope etiquette.
  • Fatigue is the most common factor leading to skiing accidents, don’t forget to take a break!

3. Check weather and avalanche forecasts before skiing

  • Follow marked trails, listen to warnings and respect closures (especially avalanche risks).
  • Carry avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel) if going off-piste.

4. Alcohol & behaviour

  • Drinking too much alcohol is a common contributor to accidents on the slopes and may also weaken your personal injury claim.
  • Make sure you are familiar with the International Ski Federation code before hitting the slopes.

5. Badly maintained equipment & ski instructors

  • Poorly maintained skis/snowboards, bindings or boots can increase the risk of personal injury, always check and service equipment before use.
  • Renting from reputable shops will help to ensure that the equipment is up to date, fully serviced and properly adjusted to your needs.
  • Always choose a certified or accredited ski instructor. They are experienced professionals with the appropriate training to not only improve your technique but also reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe learning environment.

4 steps you should take after a ski accident

It is important to take the necessary steps to ensure you receive proper treatment and put yourself in the best position to make a successful ski accident claim.

1. Seek medical attention

  • The most important step is to seek medical help as soon as possible. The resort will have specialist mountain rescue teams on hand. Make sure to save emergency numbers in your phone before hitting the slopes; these numbers can also be found on your ski map.
  • For ski accident claims, it is essential that any medical treatment is properly documented.

2. Report the accident

  • Resorts keep official records, and having a record of your accident can support your claim while also helping to prevent future accidents from happening.
  • Let your insurer know, they can offer advice and details of your policy and what it covers.

3. Collect evidence

  • If you can, take plenty of photos/videos and gather contact details of witnesses and any third parties. Evidence to show conditions on the day of the accident will also help assist your claim.

4. Keep record of expenses

  • You should keep a record as well as receipts for any expenses incurred such as travel and accommodation. This will assist when making a claim.

What injuries can I claim for?

There are various ski-related injuries you may be eligible to claim for, with knee, hip and shoulder injuries being the most common. Some are so frequent they have their own names, for example ‘snowboarder’s ankle’. Injuries on the slopes can range from minor sprains, cuts, and bruises to more serious conditions like broken bones, head trauma and spinal, back or neck injuries.

Who can I make a claim against for my ski injury?

The rules for making a claim after a ski accident depend on local laws and the regulations on the slopes. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to make a personal injury claim against them. This could include another skier, a holiday tour operator, a ski resort, a ski instructor or a lift operator.

Resorts are responsible for maintaining facilities and keeping visitors safe. Poor slope maintenance, such as failing to signpost hazards, not closing off dangerous slopes, or neglecting to replace damaged netting, can put skiers at risk. A failure to respond to emergencies, such as severe weather or first aid situations, can also be a serious issue.

Lift safety is another key concern. Operators must ensure that lifts are well maintained, the stop button works, and staff are properly trained to prevent injuries. If an accident happens due to poor maintenance or lack of training, those responsible could be held liable.

How long do I have to make a ski accident compensation claim?

The time limit for bringing a claim against an English Defendant is three years from the date of the accident. When suffering an accident in a foreign country, limitation may be different depending on the jurisdiction the accident happened in. This is why seeking legal advice as soon as possible is crucial to make sure limitation is not an issue.

How do I make a ski accident claim?

Speak with one of our legal advisors now by calling 0161 768 8757 they will guide you through the process, listen to your story and let you know your rights. Our full contact details are available here.

Last but not least

We would always recommend that you get a winter sports travel insurance when heading on a ski holiday. The rescue and medical fees in foreign countries if you suffer an accident on a ski slope can be particularly expensive and often reach tens of thousands of pounds.

Why should I choose Express Solicitors?

Accidents abroad can be complex, and you will need someone with experience handling such claims. At Express Solicitors, there is a dedicated team with expertise in holidays claims and sports injury claims. Notably: