California’s ski resorts from Big Bear to Mammoth Mountain attract thousands of skiers every winter. While skiing is meant to be thrilling and fun, accidents on the slopes can lead to catastrophic injuries. What many people don’t realize is that not all ski accidents are “just part of the sport” sometimes, they’re caused by negligence, and victims have the right to pursue compensation.
Common Causes of Ski Accidents
Not every ski accident is simply the result of a bad fall. Many are linked to preventable issues such as:
- Negligent Skiers or Snowboarders – reckless skiing, speeding in beginner zones, or ignoring posted signs.
- Resort Negligence – failure to mark hazards, poorly maintained trails, or inadequate ski patrol response.
- Defective Equipment – bindings, boots, or helmets that malfunction.
- Lift Accidents – chairlift malfunctions, sudden stops, or falls due to improper operation.
When negligence plays a role, victims can hold individuals, equipment companies, or even the ski resort accountable.
Injuries That Change Lives
Ski accidents can cause some of the most serious injuries we see at Hillstone Law, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (especially without helmets)
- Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
- Broken legs, hips, and arms
- Internal bleeding from high-impact collisions
- Wrongful death in severe crashes
These injuries often require surgery, long-term rehabilitation, and months away from work leaving victims with massive financial burdens.
Who Is Liable After a Ski Accident?
Determining liability in ski accident cases can be complex. Potential responsible parties include:
- Another Skier/Snowboarder – if they collided with you due to reckless or intoxicated skiing.
- Ski Resort Operators – if hazards weren’t properly marked or lifts weren’t maintained.
- Equipment Manufacturers/Rental Shops – if defective or poorly fitted gear caused or worsened the accident.
Even though resorts often post disclaimers and liability waivers, these do not always protect them when clear negligence is involved.
What to Do After a Ski Accident
- Get immediate medical care, ski patrol should document the incident.
- Report the accident to resort staff and request a written incident report.
- Take photos of the scene, signage, equipment, and your injuries.
- Collect witness statements if anyone saw the crash.
- Contact an attorney before speaking with resort representatives or insurers.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
Ski accident cases are different from typical injury claims. Resorts and insurance companies will often argue that you “assumed the risk” by skiing. At Hillstone Law, we know how to challenge these defenses and prove when negligence crossed the line.
We fight to recover compensation for:
- Emergency medical care and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disabilities and future care needs
Call Hillstone Law Today
If your ski trip turned into a nightmare because of someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
