What to do if you're involved in a collision on the slopes

A reader recently reached out to our team to ask what the protocol is for when someone is involved in a 'collision' accident on the slopes and we realized that this is a topic we haven't covered in years.

Here's a short list of advice for what to do when a slopesport accident involving two or more people occurs:

1. Make the accident known to other skiers on the mountain. Stick your skis in the snow to form an 'X' so that those upslope can avoid the scene. A secondary accident will only make the situation worse. It's also a good idea to let those passing know that ski patrol is needed.

2. Render immediate first aid if able to do so. That being said, if you are not formally trained in medical care, be cautious in actions you take. Moving someone with a neck injury, for example, could make it worse.

3. Contact ski patrol as soon as possible and wait for them to come to the scene. In addition to providing professional medical care, one thing they're supposed to do is facilitate an exchange of contact information for those involved. This can be helpful should legal action take place down the road. Staying at the scene of an accident that results in injury is actually something that's required by law.

4. Take notes about what happened that led to the accident. This can be difficult when injured or dazed, but can be crucial for potential legal proceedings down the road. Notes should be as detailed as possible.

5. Get contact information from potential witnesses. This can often include bystanders who may gather at the scene. This is another piece of information that may be helpful during potential future litigation. Plus, witnesses who weren't involved in a sudden accident and an adrenaline-induced daze that can follow may have a better idea of what took place. It's also important to request footage of the incident from the resort in case it exists – many parts of the mountains 

6. Take pictures of the scene of the accident, gear, and injuries. Take images of injuries in days that follow, too. This is another move that can help should a case go to court.

7. This is one that comes from advice on a legal site (Google 'ski injury' advice and there are a ton of resources available) – do not state that you are 'feeling fine' or something similar. Many injuries do not manifest until later. Noting your status could be used against you in court. Be honest about your injuries with medical personnel, but avoid mentioning that you're considering legal aid.

8. Keep notes about how injuries progress in days that follow. This could also be helpful in court.

9. Don't forget that calling 911 is also an option. Ski resorts have their own safety patrol, but calling 911 is within your legal right and could be helpful if something like reckless skiing is involved. At the least, law enforcement will document the report and likely collect any evidence from the scene that may exist.

10. Consider seeking legal aid. If someone else was at fault in the accident, you may have a case that could lead to compensation.

The scene after a serious accident involving multiple slopegoers can be chaotic, but it's important to do your best to act in a calm and controlled manner. The top priority in moments following an accident is medical care, but another priority is also documenting what happened.

And for the record, none of this is legal advice. Other people may recommend other actions and I am not a legal expert.