Determining Liability After A Hockey Injury


USA Hockey estimates that 519,417 people were actively playing hockey during the 2013-2014 season. If you have decided to start participating in hockey games, you understand that the potential for injury is always present. Although ice hockey is an inherently dangerous sport, some injuries might qualify for financial compensation through the filing of a personal injury claim.

Here are three types of people who might be liable for a hockey injury.

1. Ice Rink Operators

Ice rink operators have what the law defines as a duty of care to maintain the ice surface and surrounding premises in a way that encourages safety during hockey games. If you sustain an injury that is caused by the negligent actions of an ice rink operator, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Defects in the surface of the ice, improperly installed glass, or boards that are in disrepair, all represent potential causes for injury that should be addressed by an ice rink operator before allowing skaters to participate in a hockey game. If you can prove your injury was caused by negligence on the part of the ice rink, you will want to speak with an attorney about filing a personal injury case against the rink where your injury occurred.

2. Other Skaters

Many people enjoy the big hits that are associated with hockey. Although an injury sustained from taking a hit might not be cause for a personal injury claim, if you can prove that the skater levying the hit acted with intent to harm then you might have a case. These types of personal injury cases are often referred to as intentional torts.

A great example of a possible intentional tort would be an intention hit from behind. These hits could be classified as battery, and you could be eligible for financial compensation to help you pay for any injuries you sustain when taking an intentional hit.

3. Equipment Manufacturers

Hockey players are required to wear protective gear that is designed to prevent injury. If your gear malfunctions as a result of a manufacturing error, you may be entitled to financial compensation for any injuries that occur.

If you suspect that faulty gear is to blame for your hockey injury, you will want to work with a personal injury attorney who has experience working cases that involve specialty items and manufacturing processes to give yourself the best chance of proving equipment error caused your injury.

Understanding how you determine liability after a hockey injury will help you determine if filing a personal injury claim is warranted based on the unique circumstances surrounding your injury. If you're interested in discussing a case, consider contacting an attorney like those at Risley Law Firm, P.C. 

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