Many people have been left wondering: How long are ski bindings indemnified? What is the length of time a skier is insured while skiing? Is he or she covered for injuries resulting from accidents while skiing? These are just some of the questions that come to mind after a serious skiing accident. One might argue that since ski bindings are worn on the feet, they are a part of the skier’s body and, therefore, any injury or damage caused by them is covered by the skier’s insurance.
This is not quite true. According to the law, skiers are considered trespassers on ski lands and are personally liable for any accidents or injuries that occur due to their negligence. This includes any damage or injury caused by defective equipment, or by failing to wear proper clothing or gear. In other words, when it comes to skiing injuries and accidents, the buck stops here—and it begins with personal liability. The question is: How long is this liability?
The answer is: It depends. More than likely, your skier’s insurance policy will cover you for injuries and loss caused by ski equipment that is not from the following list (PDF, 89 KB). If you meet the criteria, you are covered. If you don’t meet the criteria, you are personally liable for any injuries or accidents that occur while skiing.
If you are reading this and wondering if your ski equipment qualifies, take a few minutes and check the components below. If any of these items are missing from your equipment or clothing, your insurance coverage might be restricted.
Table of Contents
Helmet
This is mandatory equipment for everyone skiing. It is also one of the most important safety equipment for skiers. The helmet reduces the risk of head injury by providing a protective roof, shielding the brain from injuries caused by extreme impacts. In addition, the helmet protects the skier’s hearing by providing acoustic insulation. Most importantly, the helmet keeps the skier warm by trapping heat and, thus, preventing hypothermia. Even if you are not a professional skier, it is still advisable to wear a helmet while skiing. Wearing a helmet is also a legal requirement in many countries. It is strongly suggested that you wear a helmet when skiing in mountainous regions to avoid any accidents caused by falling rocks or snow.
Jacket
This is another important part of the overall skiing attire, and it forms a protective barrier between the skin and the wind. The jacket provides additional insulation and reduces the risk of hypothermia. Wearing a jacket while skiing is also required by law in many countries. The main purpose of the jacket while skiing is to keep you warm. However, the jacket can also be used as a protection against sharp objects, such as rocks and sticks, that could cause injuries.
Ski Pants
The main function of the ski pants is to provide protection to the legs while skiing. In addition, the ski pants are also used to secure the feet in place while skiing. If you are unable to tie your shoes, the ski pants could function as an additional set of hands to help you maneuver. Lastly, the ski pants provide improved efficiency during your ski descent. Even if you are not a professional skier, it is still advisable to wear ski pants while skiing. This is especially important if you are in a new area, and you do not know the land-use policy or legislation regarding skiing.
Ski Boots
The main purpose of the ski boots is to protect the feet from injuries caused by the snow and the rocks that it may contain. In addition, the ski boots are designed specifically to fit the shape of the foot and to provide a better balance between push and pull while skiing. Moreover, the ski boots are vital in maintaining the efficiency of the skier while skiing. Even if you are not a professional skier, it is still advisable to wear ski boots while skiing. This is especially important if you are in a new area, and you do not know the land-use policy or legislation regarding skiing.
Gloves
This equipment is used to protect the hands from severe cold and injuries while skiing. The gloves allow the skier to feel the sensations from the surface of the snow, and they enhance the overall experience by providing better hand control while skiing. If you are not a professional skier, it is still advisable to wear gloves while skiing, especially in the wintertime. This is vital for maintaining the efficiency of the skier while skiing. In addition, the gloves provide better control over the ski equipment, and they protect the user’s knuckles from getting chapped by the dry snow and wind as they ski. They are also designed to fit snugly around the wrists to provide better balance while skiing. If you are looking for a cheap and simple solution for protecting your hands while skiing, opt for thin gloves constructed out of nylon or polyester.
Long Sleeves
The long sleeves are another important part of the skiing attire. They form a protection barrier between the skin and the wind, providing better insulation and, thus, warmer body temperature. Furthermore, the long sleeves are also used to secure the feet in place while skiing. If you are unable to tie your shoes, the long sleeves could function as an additional set of hands to help you maneuver. Long sleeves are also used to provide extra protection for the arms and shoulders from the occasional icy breeze or sharp rock that can cause injuries.
Waterproof Jacket
This jacket provides better water resistance than most other types of jackets. In other words, it can better protect you from the damp climate found in most ski resorts. The water-proof jacket is essential for every skier, regardless of their experience level. Damp and cold weather pose a threat to the integrity of the skier’s hair, and they can cause serious damage to clothes and equipment. This jacket provides better protection against the elements than most other types of jackets. Even if you are not a professional skier, it is still advisable to wear a waterproof jacket while skiing.
Goggles
These are the protective glasses worn while skiing. They are designed to keep the eyes safe from debris and snow crystals that can cause injuries. In addition, goggles provide better visibility while skiing, especially in poor lighting conditions, such as below zero temperatures and in snowy weather. Even if you are not a professional, it is still advisable to wear goggles while skiing. After all, even the most skilled skiers can be rendered ineffective if they are unable to see what is going on around them while skiing.
The list above is a quick reference guide to essential items for every skier. While some people might argue that other pieces of equipment are just as important (for example, the ski mask), the items listed above represent the fundamental safety requirements of every skier. By following these guidelines, you are sure to enjoy your time on the slopes and prevent any accidents or injuries that might arise from neglect or carelessness. By following these safety requirements, you will be able to enjoy your skiing experience without limitations or fears.