Why Ski Accident Claims in Vermont Are More Complicated Than You Think
Kevin Kristof

Skiing in Vermont is a way of life. Resorts like Killington, Stowe, Sugarbush, Jay Peak, and Stratton attract skiers and snowboarders from across New England and beyond. But when a day on the slopes ends in serious injury, many victims are shocked to learn that ski accident claims in Vermont are far more complicated than typical personal injury cases.

If you were injured while skiing or snowboarding in Vermont, understanding these complications is critical to protecting your rights.

 

Vermont Has Unique Ski Laws That Favor Resorts

One of the biggest surprises for injured skiers is Vermont’s assumption of risk doctrine. Under Vermont law, skiers are considered to accept certain “inherent risks” of the sport, such as changes in terrain, snow conditions, or collisions that occur during normal skiing.

Ski resorts often rely on this law to argue:

  • “You knew the risks.”
  • “This was part of skiing.”
  • “We’re not responsible.”

But assumption of risk does not give resorts total immunity. When injuries result from negligence, unsafe conditions, or equipment failures, liability may still exist. The challenge is proving where normal risk ends and negligence begins.

 

Ski Waivers Don’t Always Mean You Have No Case

Most Vermont resorts require skiers to sign waivers, sometimes without even realizing it. After an accident many victims assume they have no legal options.

In reality:

  • Waivers may not cover gross negligence
  • They may not apply to chairlift accidents
  • They may not protect resorts from unsafe maintenance or policy violations

Determining whether a waiver is enforceable requires careful legal analysis, and resorts often misrepresent what those waivers actually cover.

 

Evidence Disappears Quickly on the Slopes

Unlike car accidents, ski accidents happen in constantly changing environments. Snowfall, grooming, and skier traffic can erase evidence within hours.

This makes ski accident claims more difficult because:

  • Hazardous conditions may be altered or removed
  • Witnesses leave the resort the same day
  • Incident reports are controlled by the resort

If you were injured at Stowe Mountain Resort or Sugarbush, acting quickly can make the difference between a strong claim and one that’s impossible to prove.

 

Many Ski Accidents Involve More Than One Responsible Party

Ski accident claims often involve multiple layers of responsibility, such as:

  • The ski resort
  • Another skier or snowboarder
  • Equipment rental companies
  • Lift operators or third-party maintenance contractors

For example, a collision at Killington might involve a reckless skier, poor trail design, and inadequate signage. Sorting out fault in these cases is far more complex than most people expect.

 

Insurance Companies Treat Ski Accident Victims Differently

Insurance carriers often assume ski accident victims will give up. They know the laws are complex and may:

  • Deny claims outright
  • Blame the injured skier
  • Offer quick, low settlements before injuries are fully understood

Victims dealing with serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or torn ligaments may not realize the long-term costs until it’s too late.

 

Serious Injuries Mean Long-Term Consequences

Ski accidents aren’t always minor. Many victims face:

  • Multiple surgeries
  • Extended physical therapy
  • Lost income during peak ski season or year-round work
  • Chronic pain or permanent limitations

What starts as “just a fall” at Jay Peak or Stratton can change your life permanently making fair compensation essential.

 

Why Having a Vermont Ski Accident Lawyer Matters

Because ski accident claims are legally and factually complex, working with a lawyer who understands Vermont ski laws and resort practices is crucial. An experienced attorney can:

  • Investigate conditions before evidence disappears
  • Identify all liable parties
  • Challenge unfair waiver defenses
  • Deal directly with insurance companies
  • Fight for full compensation, not quick settlements

 

Talk to The Brown Law Firm Before You Give Up

If you were injured skiing or snowboarding in Vermont, you may have more legal options than you realize. The Brown Law Firm understands how ski resorts operate and how Vermont law affects injured skiers.

Before assuming your case is hopeless or accepting an insurance company’s version of events, talk to a Vermont ski accident lawyer who puts victims first.

 

Contact The Brown Law Firm today for a confidential consultation and learn where you truly stand.