An injury or incident at your action sports facility is stressful under any circumstances. How you handle the immediate aftermath matters for the person involved and for how your insurance claim unfolds. The steps you take in the first minutes and hours can significantly affect the outcome.
Immediately After an Incident
Prioritize medical attention. Call emergency services if warranted. Document that appropriate care was provided promptly.
Secure the scene. Do not alter the scene or put involved equipment back into service before it has been documented and inspected.
Document everything immediately. Take photographs of the scene and equipment involved. Note the time, conditions, and what activity was taking place. Collect contact information for the injured party and any witnesses.
Complete an incident report. Complete the report at the time of the event while details are fresh. This document will be important for your carrier investigation and your defense.
What Not to Do
Do not admit liability. Expressing sympathy is appropriate. Admitting fault before your carrier is involved can create significant problems for your claim defense.
Do not make payments to the injured party from business funds before consulting your carrier. Even a small payment can be interpreted as an admission of liability.
Do not discuss the incident on social media. Comments posted publicly become evidence. Refer all inquiries to your insurance carrier or legal counsel.
Notify Your Broker and Carrier Promptly
Most policies require prompt notice of incidents that may give rise to a claim, even before a formal demand is made. Delayed notice can jeopardize coverage. Contact your broker the same day if the injury is serious and provide the incident report, photographs, and witness information.
Work With Your Adjuster
Once a claim is open, cooperate fully. Prompt responses and complete documentation help resolve claims faster and on better terms. A specialty broker who understands action sports operations is a meaningful advocate throughout this process.