We all know that exercise is good for your health, but it can also cause significant physical injuries. Intense workout classes are becoming more and more popular, but they are also resulting in even more injuries. While we all should be at least somewhat responsible for our own fitness abilities and safety, there are times when injuries at the gym can be the result of another party’s negligence. If this happens, you may be entitled to damages for those injuries.
Gyms and Premises Liability
All business owners have the legal obligation to ensure that their premises are safe for people to visit. Due to the activities that take place at a gym or fitness class, failing to maintain the safe condition can have dangerous consequences. Fitness centers must make certain that the floors are not slippery or damaged, equipment and debris is not left on the floor, the pool is in good condition, and equipment is secured, and more. Failing to maintain the premises can result in severe injuries to those using the facility.
Defective Equipment Injuries
If you have been to a gym, you know that the equipment can be very heavy. The workout machines, weights, and benches are all made to withstand hard workouts. But if a machine malfunctions, it could cause the user catastrophic harm. Therefore, gyms are required to maintain, inspect, and repair their equipment to ensure that it is in safe and usable condition.
Poorly Trained Instructors and Personal Trainers
Gyms must ensure that their staff members, personal trainers, and class instructors are adequately trained for their jobs in order to maintain a safe atmosphere in the facility. Employees who are not knowledgeable or adequately trained can make recommendations that could result in injuries to the members of the gym.
Fitness facilities must only hire certified, experienced trainers and instructors who can insure that participants in classes are using proper techniques, warming up and stretching, match workout routines to the abilities of the participants, not push the participants past what they are capable of, and warn participants of possible risks associated with such workouts.
Hidden Language in Gym Contracts
Unfortunately, most gyms require their members to sign personal training and membership agreements that include language that waives liability. If you get injured at the gym while working out or in a fitness class, the waiver may prevent you from filing a personal injury claim.
However, there are exceptions to these waivers. If the gym was grossly negligent in their behavior, or a trainer or instructor was grossly negligent, you still may be able to receive compensation for the injuries you sustained due to their gross negligence. That is where an experienced personal injury attorney can make a difference.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Because liability and negligence are complex and confusing when it comes to accidents sustained in a fitness class or gym setting, it is imperative that you consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They will be able to review your claim and any liability waivers that you signed and determine what your legal rights are. Contact an attorney today to schedule a consultation.
