A family skiing holiday in Colorado turned into a terrifying ordeal when a mother plunged 25 feet from a malfunctioning chairlift while desperately clutching her three-year-old son.
The shocking incident occurred at Winter Park Resort, where Annie Miller and her young child were being transported up the slopes. According to a newly filed lawsuit, the family's nightmare began when the chairlift allegedly failed to slow down properly at the designated unloading area.
The suit claims: "The chairlift did not slow down for loading or unloading as it should have, causing the chair to essentially whip around the bullwheel at the top of the lift." This violent motion allegedly caused Ms. Miller and her son to be thrown from their seats.
In a heart-stopping moment of maternal instinct, Ms. Miller managed to maintain her grip on her child throughout the entire fall, somehow ensuring the toddler landed on top of her rather than bearing the full impact himself.
The consequences of the fall were severe. Ms. Miller suffered multiple spinal fractures, a broken wrist, and other significant injuries that have had lasting effects on her quality of life and ability to work.
The lawsuit points to alleged maintenance failures and operator negligence as primary causes of the accident. It claims resort staff were aware of previous mechanical issues with the lift but failed to address them properly or warn guests of potential dangers.
This case has reignited concerns about ski lift safety standards and the responsibility of resort operators to ensure their facilities are properly maintained and operated. The family is seeking compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, and the significant trauma endured during what should have been an enjoyable family outing.
Winter Park Resort has yet to issue a detailed public statement regarding the specific allegations in the lawsuit.
