It doesn’t matter if the other person is technically at fault in a ski/snowboard collision, the second you decide to smack the person in the head, you’ve lost all your ground.
This case is a bit sticky on the “who’s at fault” debate. Obviously the downhill rider has the right of way, and I would argue that in this case the skier should have been paying attention to the snowboarder and given him a wide berth. But at the same time, this snowboarder suddenly decided to cut heading nearly uphill without even trying to look. He nearly hits the other snowboarder in front of the skier and does create a collision.
I won’t say for sure who’s at fault in this case, but the snowboarder smacking the guy and then riding away before making sure the skier is okay is definitely not the right move.
The National Ski Areas Association’s “Your Responsibility Code” is key to keep in mind at all times when on the mountain. This video was filmed in Japan, and this code is focused on U.S. ski resorts, but it’s still a good idea to understand and respect it no matter where you are.
Your Responsibility Code:
- Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
- People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
- Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
- Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
- You must prevent runaway equipment.
- Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
- Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
- Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
