Millions of people work out in gyms across the country. They take classes or train with personal trainers to improve their health and wellness. That's why it is difficult for people who sustain injuries while working out — instead of gaining physical strength and ability, they lose it instead.
Some gym injuries can be very serious. If you were hurt during your workout, learn more about who might be liable for your injuries.
The Facility
If your injury was not a result of your own actions, the first party that may be responsible is the business or facility where you work out. Some gyms may require you to sign a waiver before you make an account with them, but the waiver does not absolve the business of the reasonable expectation of safety. They could be liable for your injuries in a number of circumstances.
Improper Staffing
Improper staffing can lead to injury of patrons in a gym in a few ways, depending on the services the gym provides. For instance, the facility would be responsible if one of their trainers did not have the right credentials or education to instruct or lead patron exercises.
Another aspect of improper staffing would be not having enough staff to handle the load of patrons at one time. If the failure to properly hire, train, and provide enough staff directly lead to your injury, then you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Lack of Maintenance
The business is also responsible for providing basic maintenance on the property, including maintenance of workout equipment. For example, if you were injured when you tripped and fell while using the treadmill and the safety stop magnet did not work or was not present, then this is a sign of negligence on the part of the gym management.
Other maintenance problems include neglecting to shovel walks, repair railings and banisters and mark damaged equipment as being out of order.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding can be an issue at popular workout centers. Too many people in the weight room or on the indoor track can mean more bumps, bruises and falls. Businesses that have a lot of patrons at a time should regulate the number of people using a space.
Irresponsible Programming
Not all patrons are at the same fitness level, and many may be extreme beginners. If a gym pushes intense personal training programs without checking ability level, medical history or a baseline fitness test, people can often be injured by doing too much too soon.
Other Patrons
Other patrons can also be the source of accidents. People use equipment incorrectly — they work out without spotters or treat the facility like a solo workout space. Dropped weights can lead to crushed toes. Accidents do happen.
If the person who injured you does not have any sort of liability coverage, then you might want to speak with a lawyer about what to do to get the payment you need.
Manufacturers
Finally, it's important not to overlook the possibility of manufacturer error. Using an example above, if the magnet emergency stop on a treadmill did not stop the treadmill when it should have, this is no longer negligence on the part of the business — it’s a product problem. The problem may be larger than one incident, and a lawyer can help you know what action to take next.
If you've been injured during your workout, there are some ways to make sure you can get the compensation you need. Contact us at Clearfield & Associates for more information.