Justified stop
A visible emergency excludes liability. Document your perception immediately.
Cableway & lift operators
False lift emergency stop. Who pays for downtime?
Pressing the lift emergency stop without cause triggers liability for downtime costs. This article explains evidence and criminal risks.
Your personal attorney
Mag. Christopher Angerer, Rechtsanwalt
Your lawyer for ski and alpine accidents
Ski and alpine accidents are complex and emotional. One lawyer you know, from the first question to the courtroom. Strong practical background (former ski instructor, mountain rescuer and dog handler).
In larger cases, the work is handled as a team (lawyer, trainee lawyer, legal assistant). Court hearings and negotiations always remain a matter for the lead lawyer.
3 July 2026 · Mag. Christopher Angerer, Rechtsanwalt
A pressed lift stop halts the entire installation. That costs operator and guests time and money.
An unjustified press triggers damages under section 1295 ABGB. Intent brings section 89 Criminal Code into play.
Check the stop
Check emergency stop
Three questions clarify authority and liability for the stop.
You already know you want to send a request? Go directly to the contact form.
Why was the stop triggered?
Justified reasons exclude liability.
All paths at a glance
Overview of all answers.
Negligent triggering
An accident may create liability under section 1295 ABGB. Have the loss amount checked.
Wilful triggering
Wilful acts trigger damages and a charge under section 89 Criminal Code. We defend you fully.
Civil liability for downtime
Civil liability for downtime
Downtime costs constitute pure economic loss. They are recoverable for intentional or negligent false triggering.
The operator must quantify the loss concretely. Staff costs and lost transport count.
Proof through video and witnesses
Proof through video and witnesses
Lift stations are regularly under video surveillance. Recordings document time and person.
Witness statements from other guests complete the picture. Anyone perceiving an emergency stays liability free.
Immediate steps:
- Secure the video recording
- Note witnesses at the lift
- Have damage figures legally reviewed
Frequently asked
Questions on lift stop
Must I always pay for downtime? +
No. Only an unjustified trigger creates liability under section 1295 ABGB. A justified emergency stop does not.
How high are typical damages? +
Depending on lift and duration a few hundred to several thousand euros. Staff cost and lost revenue matter.
Is criminal charge possible? +
Intentional triggering may meet section 89 Criminal Code. Endangering physical safety is punishable.
What about children? +
Children under 14 lack tort capacity. Parental supervision duties remain to be assessed.
Had an accident?
The sooner we secure the evidence, the better we can enforce your claim. Call us directly or send an email, callback within one business day.
Contact
A direct line to the firm.
Address
BRANDAUER Rechtsanwälte GmbH Giselakai 51 5020 Salzburg
Phone
+43 660 2407152