Minnesota is home to some outstanding waterskiing and wakeboarding spots. Lake Mille Lacs, for example, is one of the largest inland lakes in the state. It’s known for a stunning shoreline view and many convenient docks for waterskiers. Then, Lake Minnetonka is known for wakeboarding and shoreline activities like camping and fishing.
And, of course, the elephant in this conversation is Lake Superior. It is the world’s oldest and coldest freshwater lake, so it’s even more refreshing on a hot summer day.
But waterskiing and wakeboarding are considered dangerous sports. Today, the team of personal injury attorneys at Swor & Gatto is here to explain the risks and help you understand what to do after a waterskiing injury in Minnesota.
Waterski and Wakeboard Injury Statistics
Wakeboarding and waterskiing are considered hazardous sports, though they are less dangerous than downhill / slalom skiing. Some statistics to consider:
- One-third of waterskiing injuries involve the lower limbs.
- Soft tissue injuries like ankle and knee sprains and strains are common.
- Inclement weather and rough water conditions increase the risk of injury.
- Alcohol consumption — by either the skier or the boat operator — increase the risks of injury to everyone, including skiers on other vessels.
Per the American Journal of Sports Medicine, your risks for injury can increase with speed and rapid acceleration on the water, lack of protective gear, waterway obstacles, and other skiers. Thanks to safety vests, the risk of drowning is smaller than in the past but still exists.
Common Injuries Related to Wakeboarding and Waterskiing
Aside from sprains and strains, the most common injuries to waterskiers in Minnesota include:
- Carbon monoxide poisoning due to emissions from the boat
- Concussions and head injuries
- Dismemberment
- Drowning
- Death
- Fractures
- Hypothermia
- Internal organ damage
- And spinal injuries
What Happens After a Waterskiing Injury in MN?
Waterskiing injuries are terrifying because you’re in deep water, and other skiers and watercraft might be moving at high speeds nearby. Hopefully, you’re conscious after a crash. Once you scramble painfully onto the boat, it’s a long, painful ride back to shore and then to the hospital.
When to Call 911
Minor sprains and strains won’t require an ambulance ride. But you should immediately call 911 if the skier:
- Is unconscious
- Is bleeding profusely
- Has broken bones protruding through the skin
- Has blue skin, which could be a sign of either shock or hypothermia
- Seems to have a concussion (confused, eyes not dilating correctly)
Contact us if you’ve been involved in a waterskiing or wakeboarding accident in Minnesota and need professional legal help. We can help you get the compensation you deserve.
How Much Will a Waterskiing Injury Cost?
After a severe injury, you’ll be headed to the hospital. The bills can quickly pile up and can include:
- Ambulance rides
- Operating room expenses
- Hospital stay
- Anesthesiologist
- Medications
- Medical devices, like crutches and wheelchairs
- Diagnostic testing, like X-rays and MRIs
And that’s before you endure months of physical therapy or occupational therapy. Then there are costs of missed work and child care to consider.
At Swor & Gatto, our team of personal injury lawyers has nearly thirty years of experience. We’ll work hard to get you the fair compensation you deserve after a waterskiing accident in Minnesota.
Will My Waterskiing Injury Lawsuit Go to Trial?
It’s possible that your case could go to trial, and we will prepare diligently for that. But more often than not, the boat-owners insurance company will be eager to settle the case before heading to court.
When you need experienced injury attorneys in Minnesota for a waterskiing or wakeboarding injury, contact the pros at Swor & Gatto. We know these waters well.