Denver SKi Accident Lawyer

When the thrill of Colorado’s world-class slopes – from Winter Park to Arapahoe Basin – turns into a painful ordeal, you need more than just medical attention at Denver’s altitude-specialized trauma centers. You need legal expertise in Colorado’s unique ski law. Mountain accidents can result in severe injuries, mounting medical bills at Front Range facilities, and lost wages in Denver’s competitive job market, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your future.

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Skiing and snowboarding are cornerstone activities in Colorado, with millions hitting the slopes at nearby resorts like Winter Park, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin each season. While most days in the Colorado high country end without incident, serious accidents can occur, resulting in severe injuries, extensive medical bills at Denver’s specialized trauma centers, and significant losses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a ski or snowboard accident at any Colorado resort, you need an experienced Denver ski accident lawyer who understands Colorado’s 2025 Ski Safety Act. At McQuaid Injury Law, we understand the unique challenges of mountain sport injury cases and the specific regulations governing Colorado’s ski industry.

Legal representation is crucial in Colorado ski accident cases due to complex liability issues under state law and the powerful insurance companies representing local resorts. Our skilled Denver legal team will thoroughly investigate your accident – whether it occurred on a crowded weekend at Winter Park or during a backcountry excursion – and identify all responsible parties. We’ll aggressively advocate for your interests through the Colorado legal system.

Colorado ski resorts reported over 3,000 injuries during the 2023-2024 season.

male skier accident near denver colorado
Snowboarders are 50-70% more likely to be injured than skiers
Types of Ski Accident Cases We Handle

Our firm has extensive experience handling a wide range of ski and snowboard accident cases in Denver, CO, including:

Collisions between skiers/snowboarders

iolent impacts when reckless skiers or snowboarders ignore mountain safety codes and crash into others at high speeds, causing severe injuries on the slopes.

Collisions with trees, lift poles or other fixed objects

Devastating crashes caused by poorly marked hazards or inadequate safety barriers that ski resorts fail to address properly.

Chairlift accidents and malfunctions 

Terrifying incidents when ski resort negligence leads to mechanical failures, sudden stops, or improper loading/unloading procedures that put riders at risk.

Accidents caused by faulty rental equipment

Serious injuries resulting from improperly maintained or negligently adjusted rental gear that fails when you need it most.

Injuries from poor instruction by ski resort employees

Life-altering accidents caused by unqualified or negligent instructors who place beginners in dangerous situations beyond their skill level.

Avalanche-related injuries

Catastrophic incidents caused by ski resorts failing to properly assess, monitor, or warn guests about dangerous snow conditions in their terrain.

Ski patrol negligence claims

Critical delays or improper care when ski patrol personnel fail to respond appropriately to on-mountain emergencies or provide adequate first aid.

Common Ski Accident Injuries in Colorado

Ski and snowboard accidents can result in serious injuries.

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Some common injuries include:

  • Knee injuries (ACL/MCL tears)
  • Broken bones
  • Shoulder dislocations and fractures
  • Severe lacerations
  • Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
  • Internal injuries 
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Frostbite and hypothermia
Why Choose Our Firm

Don’t Be Afraid, Call McQuaid

Our experienced team combines aggressive litigation tactics with compassionate client care to maximize your compensation while supporting you through every step of your recovery journey.

  • 20 years of experience in ski/snowboard accidents
  • Dedicated team of Ski/Snowboard accident Professionals
  • proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts
  • In-depth knowledge of ski safety laws across multiple states
  • Personalized attention to every case
  • No fee unless we win your case
  • 24/7 availability for client communication
Lawyer McQuaid with personal injury victim in denver
Handing Check to personal Injury victim in phoenix
Personal Injury attorney Brendan McQuaid
Our Process

From Injury to Justice: 5 Simple Steps

Getting fair compensation after a Colorado ski accident is straightforward. Start with a free consultation at our downtown Denver office—we’re available 24/7 to serve injured skiers and snowboarders across the Front Range and mountain communities. Our team will investigate your case at any Colorado resort, from Winter Park to Arapahoe Basin, and handle all legal paperwork while you focus on recovery at Denver’s altitude-specialized medical facilities.

We’ll document mountain conditions, gather ski patrol reports, and build a strong case under Colorado’s 2025 Ski Safety Act. Whether your accident involved a lift malfunction, a collision on a crowded run, or equipment rental issues, you pay nothing unless we secure your settlement. Your path to justice starts with one call to our 17th Street office, where our experienced mountain sport injury attorneys understand both the slopes and the law.

Dial or Text (303) 551-9495 in Colorado or (602) 892-4111 in Arizona to speak with one of our experienced personal injury professionals. We’re here to listen to your story and answer your questions. You can also fill out the contact form to request a free consultation. Provide some basic details about your case, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Attorney Brendan McQuaid will work on your case, supported by a team of professionals who will work tirelessly to protect your rights. At McQuaid Injury law, you will always speak with an attorney.

Our experienced team will handle the process of filing a personal injury claim with all responsible insurance companies. We’ll investigate your case thoroughly and collect evidence and documentation to support your claim. We’ll negotiate with the insurance company to secure the maximum compensation possible, always striving to reach a fair settlement.

When an insurance settlement offer isn’t fair or your case requires aggressive legal action, we’ll take your fight to court. Our legal team prepares a compelling case, ensuring all the necessary documentation and witnesses are in place. Our experienced trial team will vigorously represent you in court, fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve.

Our commitment to you is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We’ll work tirelessly to:

Maximize Compensation: We’ll strive to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Brendan McQuaid is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, as he has achieved multi-million dollar results for his clients.

Peace of Mind: While we handle the legal complexities, you can focus on your recovery and well-being, knowing your case is in capable hands.

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Victories Echoed: What Our Clients Say

Don’t just take our word for it—hear from those we’ve helped. Our clients’ stories of triumph over adversity speak volumes about our dedication and expertise. From life-changing settlements to compassionate support throughout the legal process, these testimonials reflect our unwavering commitment to justice. Discover why so many trust us with their most challenging moments.

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Based on 157 Reviews
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Jose Gomez
Jose Gomez
March 10, 2025

I was rear ended and got push into a truck infront hurt my leg and my back pretty badly and mcquaid help me get back on my feet

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Ismael Rivera
Ismael Rivera
January 29, 2025

You will be satisfied and thankful you hired the dream team, very persistent and will battle for you until the end

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David Reyes
David Reyes
January 14, 2025

I recently had a car accident and sought the help of McQuaid Injury Law. Brenden McQuaid was incredibly supportive and professional throughout the entire process. They handled my case with great expertise and ensured that I received the compensation I deserved. Their dedication and attention to detail made a stressful situation much more manageable. I highly recommend McQuaid Injury Law for anyone needing legal assistance after an accident. Thank you for your outstanding service!"

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Sara Lockhart
Sara Lockhart
January 9, 2025

We are so grateful for Brendan McQuaid and helping us with our son’s injury claim. We are very impressed with his attention to detail and making sure everything was handled correctly and timely.

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Anita Edwards
Anita Edwards
January 9, 2025

Brendan McQuaid and his team have done such an amazing job for my son‘s case. They are attentive, and know exactly how to handle things appropriately. I trust Brendan and would recommend him to anybody!

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Matt Edgar
Matt Edgar
January 3, 2025

Great job!

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George Ressinger
George Ressinger
December 3, 2024

Brendan and his team got me through a difficult process, and got me a good result

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Joe Totten
Joe Totten
November 9, 2024

This past summer I was in a car accident that left me with very serious injuries and ended up in the hospital for 12 days. My medical bills were astronomical, and I was not able to work due to my injuries. I knew I needed help. I reached out to several large law firms, however, they were either too busy or not interested in taking my case. I finally found McQuaid Injury Law where Brendan and his team immediately took me in and started helping me with my situation. I was truly amazed how quick and efficient they were as they settled my case with maximum recovery potential in a short time frame. They took more interest in my case and undoubtedly put forth more effort than any big law firm would have. Brendan McQuaid is a phenomenal attorney and his head Paralegal Richelle was incredible to work with. I could not have made a better choice going with McQuaid Injury Law as my legal counsel!

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Michael Carlaw
Michael Carlaw
October 22, 2024

Got in a car accident this spring. Connected with them through a referral and they handled the case step by step. Very professional and superb communication! Thank you for helping!!

Your Denver Ski Accident Questions Answered

Navigate the road to recovery with confidence as we address the most pressing questions our clients ask after experiencing a ski accident.

If you’re involved in a ski or snowboard accident in Colorado, take these immediate steps:

  1. Ensure Safety: Secure the accident area to prevent further collisions. Place crossed skis or a planted snowboard above the injured person to alert approaching skiers.
  2. Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. If someone is unconscious, check their airway and breathing.
  3. Call for Help: Contact ski patrol immediately. Use the emergency number on your piste map or call 112. Provide your location, number of people injured, and type of injuries.
  4. Administer First Aid: If necessary, perform CPR or place the injured person in the recovery position. Do not move them unless absolutely necessary.
  5. Keep Warm: Protect the injured person from hypothermia using a foil blanket if available.
  6. Document the Incident: If possible, take photos of the accident area and gather contact information from witnesses.
  7. Exchange Information: If another skier was involved, exchange contact details as required by the Ski Safety Act.
  8. Report to Ski Patrol: Ensure the accident is reported and documented by ski patrol.
  9. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get examined by a medical provider to document any injuries.
  10. Consult an Attorney: If the accident was caused by another’s negligence, consider contacting a ski accident attorney, as there’s a two-year statute of limitations for such cases in Colorado.

Remember, staying calm and following these steps can help ensure proper care and protect your rights following a ski or snowboard accident.

In Colorado, liability for ski accidents can fall on several parties:

Other Skiers: The uphill skier is often presumed responsible for accidents with downhill skiers. Skiers who ski recklessly, ignore safety rules, or ski beyond their abilities may be held liable for accidents they cause.

Ski Resorts: While skiers assume some inherent risks, ski areas can still be held liable for negligence, especially if they violate state laws or regulations. This includes:

    • Failing to maintain safe premises
    • Violating the Colorado Ski Safety Act or Passenger Tramway Safety Act
    • Negligence in operating ski lifts

    Ski Lift Operators: They may be held responsible for accidents resulting from improper operation or failure to stop lifts when necessary.

    Equipment Manufacturers: If an accident is caused by faulty equipment, the manufacturer could potentially be held liable.

    Ski Instructors or Guides: In cases where their negligence leads to an accident.

      It’s important to note that Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning a skier’s compensation may be reduced if they are found partially at fault for the accident. Additionally, the Colorado Supreme Court recently ruled that liability waivers do not always shield ski resorts from accountability, particularly when there are violations of state laws or regulations.

      Each case is unique, and determining liability often requires a thorough investigation of the specific circumstances surrounding the accident.

      If you’ve been injured in a ski accident in Colorado, you may be eligible for various types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of your case:

      Economic Damages

      • Current and future medical expenses
      • Lost wages and lost earning potential
      • Property damage
      • Home and vehicle modifications (e.g., wheelchair ramps)

      Non-Economic Damages

      • Pain and suffering
      • Emotional distress
      • Loss of enjoyment of life
      • Physical impairment or disfigurement
      • Loss of consortium (for spouses)

      Punitive Damages

      In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may be available.

      Important Considerations

      Damage Caps

      Colorado law caps damages for ski accident claims at $1 million. This includes a $250,000 limit for derivative claims (e.g., loss of consortium).

      Recent Legal Developments

      As of 2024, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that liability waivers cannot shield ski resorts from all negligence claims, particularly those related to chairlift accidents or violations of the Ski Safety Act.

      Factors Affecting Compensation

      • Severity of injuries
      • Long-term impact on quality of life
      • Degree of negligence involved
      • Strength of evidence

      Time Limits

      You have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim under Colorado’s statute of limitations.

      To maximize your potential compensation, it’s crucial to document all expenses and impacts of the injury, and consult with an experienced ski accident attorney who can navigate the complexities of Colorado ski law.

      Colorado’s Ski Safety Act significantly impacts ski accident cases in the state. Here’s how it affects your case:

      1. Assumption of Inherent Risks
        The Act defines certain risks as inherent to skiing, including weather conditions, terrain variations, and collisions with other skiers. If your accident resulted from these inherent risks, it may be challenging to hold the ski resort liable.
      2. Skier Responsibilities
        The Act outlines specific duties for skiers, such as maintaining control, avoiding collisions, and heeding posted warnings. Your compliance with these responsibilities will be considered in your case.
      3. Ski Resort Duties
        Ski areas have obligations under the Act, including proper signage, trail marking, and lift maintenance. If your accident resulted from the resort’s failure to meet these duties, you may have a stronger case.
      4. Liability Limitations
        While the Act provides some protections for ski resorts, a recent Colorado Supreme Court ruling has limited the scope of liability waivers. Resorts can’t use waivers to shield themselves from all negligence claims, particularly those related to chairlift accidents or violations of the Ski Safety Act.
      5. Damage Caps
        The Act caps damages at $1 million for ski accident claims, with a $250,000 limit for derivative claims like loss of consortium.
      6. Statute of Limitations
        You have two years from the date of injury to file a claim under the Act.
      7. Chairlift Accidents
        The Act specifically excludes chairlift accidents from the definition of inherent risks, potentially making it easier to pursue claims for lift-related injuries.
      8. Comparative Negligence
        Colorado’s modified comparative negligence rule applies, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident.

      Understanding these aspects of the Ski Safety Act is crucial for building a strong case. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney experienced in Colorado ski law to navigate the complexities of your specific situation.

      If you signed a liability waiver before skiing in Colorado, it does not automatically bar you from pursuing legal action, depending on the circumstances of your accident. Here’s how ski waivers affect your case:

      1. General Protection Provided by Waivers

      • Liability waivers are standard in the ski industry and typically protect resorts from lawsuits involving inherent risks of skiing, such as collisions with other skiers or natural terrain hazards.
      • These waivers often include broad language assuming all risks, including those caused by negligence.

      2. Limitations of Liability Waivers

      Recent rulings by the Colorado Supreme Court have clarified that waivers cannot shield ski resorts from all types of negligence claims:

      • Violations of State Laws: Resorts cannot use waivers to avoid liability for failing to comply with the Colorado Ski Safety Act or the Passenger Tramway Safety Act. For example, if a ski lift malfunction occurs due to improper maintenance or lack of operator attention, the waiver may not protect the resort.
      • Gross Negligence: Waivers generally cannot excuse grossly negligent behavior, which goes beyond ordinary carelessness.

      3. Chairlift Accidents

      • The Colorado Supreme Court recently ruled that waivers cannot absolve resorts from liability for injuries caused by chairlift accidents if the resort violated safety regulations or failed to meet its legal duties (e.g., failing to stop a lift when necessary).

      4. Factors That Could Strengthen Your Case

      To challenge a waiver and hold a resort liable, you must prove:

      • The resort breached its duty of care (e.g., failure to maintain equipment or provide adequate warnings).
      • The breach directly caused your injury.
      • The waiver does not apply due to violations of state laws or gross negligence.

      5. Legal Implications

      While signing a waiver may limit some claims, it does not eliminate all legal options. If your injury was caused by negligence that falls outside the scope of inherent risks or involves regulatory violations, you may still have grounds to file a lawsuit.

      Consulting an experienced ski accident attorney is crucial for evaluating whether the waiver is enforceable in your specific case and determining the best course of action.

      In Colorado, you have two years from the date of the ski accident to file a lawsuit, as established under the Colorado Ski Safety Act and general personal injury laws. This two-year statute of limitations applies to claims against ski resorts, operators, other skiers, or any responsible party.

      Key Considerations:

      • Strict Deadline: If you fail to file your claim within this two-year period, your case will likely be dismissed, and you will lose your right to pursue compensation.
      • Exceptions: There may be limited exceptions, such as if the injured party is a minor or if the injury was not immediately discoverable. Consult an attorney to determine if any exceptions apply to your case.

      To protect your rights and ensure compliance with this deadline, it’s advisable to consult a ski accident attorney as soon as possible after the incident.

      Most ski accident lawyers in Colorado work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any upfront costs. Here’s how the fee structure typically works:

      Contingency Fee Percentage:

        • Standard fee: 35% of the total settlement or award
        • For cases requiring litigation or trial: Around 42% of the total recovery

        No Win, No Fee:
        If your case is unsuccessful, you generally don’t owe the attorney any legal fees.

        Case Expenses:

          • Lawyers usually cover upfront costs like court filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation expenses.
          • These costs are typically reimbursed from the settlement or award if the case is successful.

          Free Initial Consultation:
          Most ski accident attorneys offer a free case evaluation to discuss the merits of your claim.

            It’s important to note that the exact percentage may vary depending on the complexity of your case and the specific agreement with your chosen attorney. Be sure to discuss the fee structure during your initial consultation to fully understand the potential costs involved in your ski accident case.

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