Winter sports accidents

With excellent snowfall in Europe and COVID-19 travel restrictions being lifted today by the French government to vaccinated British tourists, skiers and snowboarders are keeping all fingers and toes crossed that they will be able to hit the slopes this winter.

However, winter sports accidents can happen even in the perfect snow conditions. Whether you are training to be the next Eddie the Eagle or prefer the comfort of ski school, you are entitled to expect that other skiers and boarders will ski and board with reasonable care. This includes looking out for others. If reasonable care wasn’t taken, and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to bring a claim for compensation.

Here is a reminder of what to do if you are involved in a ski or snowboarding accident:

Accident Checklist

1. Seek medical attention ASAP and record the name of the medical centre and staff who see you.
2. Report the accident to the local police and ask for a copy of the report.
3. Take the name, contact details and insurance details of the person who caused you to fall.
4. Take photos of the accident location and weather.
5. Collect evidence, such as broken equipment.
6. Obtain names and contact details of witnesses.
7. Keep all receipts for medical and related expenses.
8. Check if your travel or home insurance policy covers legal fees.

Time Limit For Bringing A Claim

In England, the time limit for bringing a claim is 3 years from the date of the accident. In Europe, different countries have different time limits. We will advise you of these once you contact us.

Travel insurance

Italy is the only country to insist on compulsory ski insurance. There are fines of between €100 and €150 for those who fail to comply.

For other countries, ski insurance is optional but highly advisable. Whilst travel insurance may pay for your medical and travel expenses it won’t generally cover your personal injury and consequential losses such as lost earnings, care and rehabilitation.

Do make sure that you have the most comprehensive travel cover you can get, including winter sport cover. This will protect you both in respect of your own losses in case of an accident and those of any third party should you unfortunately be at fault yourself. Ski accident claims can be very costly.