Are You Responsible For Your Own Gym Injury
On Behalf of The Andres Lopez Law Firm , PA | May 11, 2025 | Uncategorized
So, what do you do if you are injured while working out at the gym? Well, as a spinal cord injury lawyer would recommend, the first question to ask is whether it was your fault or the gym’s. For example, if you are bench pressing without a spotter and you drop the weight and get hurt, that is on you. If, on the other hand, the weight bench breaks due to faulty maintenance by the gym, that could be on them.
What does “could be on them” mean, you ask? This depends on what language may be contained in the waiver that you signed when you became a member of the gym. Courts vary on what they feel is an enforceable waiver. First, courts look to see if the language used in the waiver is clear and understandable as opposed to “legalese.” Second, the courts will look to see if you have waived negligence claims against the gym and therefore, must prove gross negligence. For example, if the gym does not mop the floor, and you slip just on the wet floor without a harmful substance, that might be excluded. However, if the gym failed to patch a hole in the flooring and you caught your foot and tripped, that might not be excluded. It all comes down to what is in the waiver you signed when you first joined.
Some of the more common gym hazards are worn flooring, rusted equipment that breaks, failing to regularly pick up weights lying on the floor, and failing to check the machines for sharp edges. Additionally, improperly maintained exercise machines, unsecured heavy equipment, and poor lighting can also create dangerous conditions that increase the risk of injury.
Unlike medical bills incurred in a car crash which are usually paid by PIP, gyms are not covered by this type of insurance as our friends at Mickey Keenan P.A. can explain. Some gyms do carry an insurance coverage called “Med Pay” that may be available to pay medical bills but oftentimes, medical bills become the responsibility of the member. If the gym's negligence can be proven, you may be able to seek compensation not only for medical expenses, but also for lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs.
It is important to act quickly if you are injured at a gym. You should document the scene as best you can — taking photos of the hazard, your injuries, and obtaining the names of any witnesses who saw the accident happen. Reporting the injury immediately to gym management and seeking prompt medical care are also crucial steps to protect your health and your potential claim.
Every gym injury case is different, and the details matter. Whether your injury was caused by a hidden defect, a maintenance failure, or negligent supervision, a lawyer is here to help you determine the best path forward. If you have been injured in a gym, please call an attorney for a consultation. They are here to evaluate your situation and help you understand your rights.