Sports Injuries in the Winter: When to Talk to a Lawyer About an Injury at the Ice Rink

Ice skating is a popular sport for family fun in San Antonio and across Texas during the winter season. Temporary ice skating rinks pop up across the state around the holidays, which usually provide a safe environment for play – however, they can be extremely dangerous if not properly maintained.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), around 1.6 million skating-related injuries are estimated annually. Of these, 24% are caused by ice skating. 

Ice skating is inherently a little dangerous. Minor bumps and bruises are common, especially when you’re trying it for the first time. But, injuries can be caused by the owner’s negligence, and when that happens, you could be entitled to compensation. Read on to find out the most common injuries to watch out for on ice skating rinks and when you should consider talking to an attorney.

For ice skating-related incidents in Texas, call Shaw at 800-862-1260 for a free consultation. 

Common Ice Skating Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Getting injured in an ice rink is easier, especially if it’s your first time. Injuries may vary from simple to severe, depending on certain factors like skating speed and stunt.  However, the most common ice-skating related ones include: 

• Ankle Sprains,

• Fractures,

• Concussions,

• Pulled Hamstrings,

• Bruises and Cuts,

• Dislocations,

• And Head Injuries.

Taking precautions like wearing protective gear, doing warm-ups, off-ice training, and resting if feeling unwell can help lessen the chances of injuries. However, accidents can still happen after all the preparations. So, seek immediate help if you or your loved one gets injured while skating on ice. 

When Should I File a Claim for an Ice Skating Injury? 

Falling off the ice due to inexperience is something you can laugh about after skating. But you should never laugh off an injury that happened because a rink operator was careless about your safety and your family’s safety. 

Section 760.002 of the Health and Safety Code states that an operator of any public skating rink shall have at least one rink monitor to:

• Wear an identification attire as a rink monitor,
• Direct and supervise skaters and spectators, and;
• Keep the ice skating surface free from any obstacles.

An operator should also inspect and maintain the vicinity, as well as ensure mechanical equipment is in good condition. They are also obligated to follow the risk management guidelines, post rules for skaters and spectators to see around the center, and make sure those signs are readable for all posted notices. They must also ensure that they carry liability insurance for personal injury, property damage, or death. 

A breach of duty from the operator means a violation of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, and the operator will hold liability for any injury and damage post to the skaters and spectators caused by negligence. 

If you or your loved one gets injured while ice skating, it is essential to note that evidence of negligence on the operator’s part is necessary to prove your claim. Ensure that you have followed the safety standards when ice skating and that there is no negligence on your part that might have caused your injury. 

If you want a lawyer to assess your case, Carabin Shaw offers free consultations without any obligations. 

Injury In The Rink? Call Shaw. 

Trying a new sport or improving your ice skating routine can become a tragedy through other people’s negligence. If you or your child got injured while ice skating due to the operator’s failure to maintain and secure a safe ice skating rink anywhere in Texas, you are entitled to compensation for things like:

• Ambulance Costs,

• ER Treatment,

• Surgeries,

• Medical Bills,

• Pain and Suffering,

• Property Damage,

• Missed Work,

• Wrongful Death,

• And More.

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our premises liability attorneys. No fees, no obligations, just expert legal advice. We put our clients first because we care.

We look forward to serving you.