Operator liability without deduction
Secure evidence of missing closure. We assess claims under section 5 EKHG plus fault liability.
Slope accidents
Snow groomer collision during grooming: operator liability
Snow groomers operate after lift closure. Collisions trigger EKHG strict liability of the operator plus driver fault.
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.
30 June 2026 · Mag. Christopher Angerer, Rechtsanwalt
Snow groomers are heavy tracked vehicles with winch cables. Collisions usually cause serious injury.
Austrian EKHG imposes strict operator liability. Driver fault under ABGB may add.
Groomer accident
Collision with snow groomer
Check closure, visibility and operator liability in three steps.
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Was the slope clearly closed at the time?
Signs, tape or signal lights at the entry.
All paths at a glance
Overview of all answers.
Quota liability likely
Evidence is mixed. We calculate quotas between 20 and 50 percent in your favour.
High contributory fault
A fully closed slope often bars claims. We check residual EKHG claims.
Operator liability under EKHG
Operator liability under EKHG
The groomer qualifies as motor vehicle under EKHG. Section 5 EKHG imposes strict liability of the operator for operational risk.
Section 15 EKHG caps personal injury at about 1.2 million Euro per person. Exoneration under section 9 EKHG demands an unavoidable event.
Closure and driver fault
Closure and driver fault
After lift closure the grooming slope must be visibly blocked. Missing signs or winch warnings mean fault of the slope operator.
The driver may be liable under section 1295 ABGB for personal fault. Contributory fault applies if the skier enters a closed slope.
Immediate steps:
- Photograph the scene including signs and tracks
- Request operator and driver details in writing
- Alert police and slope rescue immediately
Frequently asked
Snow groomer liability
Is the slope operator liable without fault? +
Yes. Section 5 EKHG imposes strict liability of the operator of the snow groomer for operational risk.
What is the liability cap? +
Section 15 EKHG caps personal injury at about 1.2 million Euro per claimant. Higher amounts require proven fault.
What does slope closure mean in practice? +
Signs, lowered ropes and signal lights must be clear from skier perspective. Otherwise contributory fault is unlikely.
What about winch cable injuries? +
The winch belongs to the operational risk. Strict liability covers cable injuries too. Secure photos of the cable route.
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