If you resolved to exercise more in 2018 or lose weight, you are not alone. Health-related New Year’s resolutions are very common resolutions. As a result, many people head to the nearest gym to sign up for a membership as part of their resolution to become healthier this year. The number of low-cost gyms has increased in recent years throughout Canada in response to consumers searching for cost-effective methods of exercising.
However, with more people headed to the gym, we are likely to see an increase in gym injuries too. If you have been injured at a gym, you could be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries by filing a personal injury claim. Contact our Ontario personal injury lawyers for a free case review.
I Thought I Was Responsible If I Hurt Myself While Working Out
While there is a certain assumption of risk when you use equipment at a fitness centre or gym, the owners of these facilities have a duty of care to provide safe premises and equipment for use by members and guests. You are responsible for injuries that occur because of your negligence or recklessness.
For instance, if you use equipment in a way that you are specifically instructed not to do, you assume the risk if you are injured. Likewise, if you have been instructed by your physician not to perform certain exercises or you lift more weight than you know you are capable of lifting, the owner probably will not be held liable if you are injured at the gym.
However, even though you assume some of the risks when working out or participating in activities at a gym or fitness centre, the owner can also be held liable for some injuries. The Owners’ Liability Act holds owners liable under certain circumstances if a person is injured on their property. As discussed above, the law requires owners to provide safe premises and take reasonable steps to prevent injuries and accidents. If an owner fails in this duty of care, the owner can be held liable for injuries, damages, and losses when someone is injured.
Some of the circumstances that could give rise to a personal injury claim at a gym include:
- Failing to post adequate warnings and instructions for the use of equipment and facilities;
- Slippery or wet floors;
- Torn, loose, or broken mats and floors;
- Inadequately maintained equipment and facilities;
- Hazardous or dangerous premises, conditions, or objects; and,
- Lack of emergency and first aid kits and equipment.
If you or a family member has been injured at a gym, you should consult with a lawyer now. Our Ontario lawyers offer free consultations so that you can learn about your legal options for holding a gym owner accountable for negligence.
Common Gym Injuries and Available Damages
There are numerous injuries that you could suffer while working out. However, there are some common injuries that people suffer while exercising and working out. Some of the most common workout injuries include:
- Knee injuries
- Tendinitis
- Sprains and dislocations
- Shin splints
- Shoulder injuries
- Muscle strains and pulls
If your gym injury is the result of an owner’s negligence, you could recover compensation for damages. The amount you receive depends on several factors, but you might be entitled to reimbursement for your lost wages and medical bills. In addition to your financial losses, you can also receive compensation for physical pain, mental anguish, permanent disability, and emotional stress.
Contact a Lawyer for Advice and a Free Case Review
The lawyers at Diamond and Diamond want to hear your story. Call 1-800-567-HURT to speak to someone now about your gym injury.
