Maintaining a regular workout routine is essential for your health. It can keep you fit and reduce the risk of certain diseases. At the same time, hazards like faulty gym equipment can cause a great deal of injury.
While grappling with the repercussions, which may range from expensive medical bills to lost wages, you are left wondering, why did this happen? Who was responsible? Do I have to pay for the medical bills?
Find the answer to this and many more related questions in our comprehensive blog.
Tracing Fault in a Gym Accident
So, who is responsible for your gym injuries?
As with many other questions involving liability in personal injury, the answer is “It depends.”
For the most part, it will depend on the protections the gym has in place, whether there was negligence involved, and if you played a part.
“Legally speaking, the gym’s management must ensure the premises are safe for any lawful visitors invited into the property. They should regularly inspect the facility for dangers to patrons and promptly address them through repairs,” says personal injury attorney John Yannone.
If your accident stemmed from a danger that management knew or should have known about, you could sue them for damages in a personal injury claim.
The situation can become complicated if you sign a liability waiver. Its because by signing the document, you:
i) Acknowledge the risk of using the gym equipment
ii) Forfeit the right to sue the gym in the event of an accident
However, these waivers are not always enforceable, especially if they are phrased in confusing language or when minors are involved. And when the gym engages in willful misconduct or gross negligence, they can still be held to account.
As you can see, liability in the context of gym accidents can be a tough nut to crack. A qualified personal injury attorney will analyze your case to determine the at-fault party. They also negotiate with insurance companies advocating for maximum compensation.
But if you contribute to your own accident, the situation can drastically change. Virginia is a contributory negligence state—It bars plaintiffs from seeking restitution when they had a part to play in their own injury.
Therefore, it is best to exercise caution while at the gym. Be mindful of the rules and follow them to the latter. Refrain from engaging in activities that put other patrons at risk; this could land you in trouble.
Remember, if you contributed to your own gym injury, Virginia law prevents you from seeking compensation. You will be forced to bear the burden of paying for all the damages out of pocket.
Conclusion
It’s no secret that working out can cause minor side effects like muscle aches. But the repercussions transcend mere sprains when exposed to dangers like faulty equipment.
The law entitles you to compensation from the at-fault party when grappling with gym injuries. Hiring a qualified personal injury attorney increases your odds of winning.
Most lawyers offer a contingency-based payment plan, where part of your settlement covers their fees. In turn, they front all legal expenses, aligning their interests with yours. They will offer counsel on the best path to take, ensuring you don’t fall for lowball offers from insurance companies.