Child Falls From Chairlift During Ski School Program

This case involves an injury sustained at a ski resort in Utah. A 10-year-old boy who had never been skiing was enrolled in the resort’s ski school program. On the second day, the boy was permitted to ride the lift by himself. While on the lift, the boy slipped through the bars and fell approximately 40 feet, sustaining multiple injuries. He underwent an emergency laparotomy and lost one spleen and one kidney. An expert in ski instruction was sought to discuss the industry standard safety protocol for small children riding ski lifts and help determine what should have been done to prevent this injury.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Please describe your experience as a ski instructor.

2. What industry standards exist for safety protocol regarding small children riding ski lifts?

Expert Witness Response E-030760

This case is right in my area of expertise. I have 45 years of experience in skiing and 20+ years as a ski instructor. This is a tragic case and I am glad to assist and speak to the industry standard for safety. I have reviewed several ski cases and have experience with ski lodges across the country.