Wrist Fracture at Vail
A wrist fracture typically involves a break in the distal radius, one of the most common fractures. These often result from falling onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH injury).
At Vail (Vail, Eagle County, elevation 11,570 ft), wrist fracture injuries are common due to the resort's 195 trails across 5,317 acres of terrain. The Colorado Ski Safety Act (C.R.S. § 33-44-101) affects liability, but resort negligence claims remain viable.
Wrist Fracture Settlement Ranges
| Severity | Estimated Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Low Severity | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Medium Severity | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| High Severity / Catastrophic | $60,000 – $200,000+ |
These ranges are general estimates based on Colorado verdict and settlement data. Actual case values vary based on specific facts.
Medical Treatment & Case Impact
Diagnosed via X-ray. Stable fractures are casted; displaced fractures require ORIF surgery. Recovery takes 6 to 12 weeks. Complications include stiffness, chronic pain, and reduced grip strength.
Valued based on dominant/non-dominant hand, severity, need for surgery, and occupational impact. Writers, typists, musicians, and manual workers may have higher case values in Colorado.
Ski Safety Act Considerations
Under the Colorado Ski Safety Act (C.R.S. 33-44-101 et seq.), Vail Resorts is protected from liability for injuries arising from inherent risks of skiing. However, the resort remains liable for negligent grooming, failure to mark hazards, lift malfunctions, reckless ski patrol or employee behavior, and inadequate signage. Vail's extensive terrain, including ungroomed bowls and expert chutes, creates areas where the line between inherent risk and resort negligence may be disputed. Documented cases of grooming negligence and unmarked obstacles on Vail's runs have resulted in significant settlements.