The Skier Responsibility Code

Greetings!

           This is a brief summary of the Skier’s Responsibility Code.  The Code is written into New York law, “NY General Obligations Law § 18-105” and “12 NYCRR Part 54.4.”  All skiers must be familiar with the Code. It summarizes your obligations as a skier.  Violations of the code could jeopardize the health and safety of you and those around you.

            In New York, skiing is more than just a fun winter activity — it’s an activity governed by state law. The Skier Responsibility Code, established under New York’s Safety in Skiing laws, exists to protect everyone on the mountain. For novice skiers especially, understanding and following this code is one of the most important parts of learning the sport.

            When you’re new to skiing, it’s easy to focus only on balance, turning, and stopping. But skiing happens in a shared environment. Every person on the slope is moving at different speeds, with different skill levels. The code exists because one person’s mistake can quickly become someone else’s injury.

            At its core, the code requires you to stay in control at all times. That means skiing at a speed appropriate for your ability and for the conditions — whether that’s icy patches, crowded trails, or changing terrain. As a beginner, it’s especially important not to be careful and use good common sense.  Choose trails within your ability.

            The code also emphasizes awareness. You are expected to be familiar with posted signs and understand trail markings. Stay on open trails.  No skiing on closed trails.  There are likely hazards you may not see. Ignoring those warnings can put you and others at serious risk.  And you will have your ticket revoked.

            Another key principle is right-of-way. Skiers ahead of you have the priority. If you’re overtaking someone, it’s your responsibility to avoid them. Likewise, when starting downhill or merging onto a trail, you must yield to others already moving. These simple rules are intended to prevent collisions.  I like to say,” keep your head on a swivel” – looking right, left, up, and down as often as possible.  

            Looking uphill when moving across a slope or the fall-line will help to avoid collisions.  At the same time, skiers traveling downhill must steer clear when overtaking skiers below.  

            The best idea is to ski defensively - simply keep a lookout at all times.

            The ability to stop safely and when necessary is also part of responsible skiing.  But never stop is a dangerous place such as where you’re not visible from above or where you might be blocking a narrow trail. Always move to the side of the trail when resting. This keeps the main path clear and reduces the chance of someone unexpectedly running into you.

            The code also requires skiers to remain at the scene of an accident and report injuries before leaving the area. This ensures that injured individuals receive help and that incidents are properly documented. It reflects a shared responsibility for safety and accountability on the mountain. If you have an accident or an emergency, call 9-1-1.  Get ski patrol there as soon as possible. Document those involved, witnesses, time, and location. Use your phone to record as much information as possible.

            If someone is injured, be sure to get help as soon as possible.  Do not move the injured skier.  Try to make yourselves visible to others and remain calm until help arrives.  Patrollers are trained in first aid and will be able to offer assistance immediately.

            Being familiar with and following the Skier Responsibility Code is necessary for all skiers.  Doing so will help to build good habits, set good examples for others, and avoid injuries. It teaches control, awareness, courtesy, and respect for the mountain environment. These habits not only keep you safer but also make skiing more enjoyable for everyone around you.

            Skiing will always involve inherent risks — changing weather, variable snow, and natural obstacles. But by following New York’s Skier Responsibility Code, you greatly reduce preventable dangers. As you learn and improve, remember that being a good skier isn’t just about skill — it’s about being a responsible participant.

            Enjoy the slopes!

Yours,

Craig Small