The Idaho Supreme Court heard arguments on February 14, 2025, regarding the state's ski area liability law, which has become a key issue in a wrongful death lawsuit against Sun Valley Resort. The case involves the 2019 death of skier Stewart Milus, who collided with a snow gun on the resort’s Lower River Run and died from his injuries. Milus' widow, Laura, is suing the resort, claiming the placement of the snow gun was unsafe.

The justices expressed difficulty with the state’s Ski Area Liability Act, enacted in 1979, criticizing its contradictory language. Justice Colleen Zahn called the statute "poorly drafted," highlighting its conflicting clauses regarding skier responsibility and ski area duties. The central question is whether the ski resort can be held liable for the accident despite the law’s provision that skiers assume full liability if they don’t follow safety guidelines.

At the heart of the case is the Idaho Supreme Court's December 2023 decision in Milus v. Sun Valley Company, which overturned a lower court ruling, suggesting that a jury should decide whether the resort was at fault despite the skier’s behavior. Sun Valley argues that the law protects them from liability because the snow gun was visibly placed on the slope, and they have never claimed full immunity.

The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Idaho’s ski industry, as resorts worry about increased lawsuits and liability insurance costs. Ski area managers expressed concern that the ruling might increase the cost of skiing and potentially harm small resorts. The case remains under advisement by the court, with no set timeline for a decision.

GLP Attorneys Support Families of Victims of Wrongful Deaths

It’s important to understand wrongful death claims to effectively navigate the legal landscape surrounding the loss of a loved one. It ensures that justice is sought comprehensively, addressing both the immediate repercussions of the death and the lasting effects.

GLP Attorneys’ personal injury lawyers have extensive experience with wrongful death claims. Our lawyers stand ready to help you with your case today.

If your loved one has been fatally injured in an accident, call RJ Ermola at 800-273-5005 or email us at to schedule a free lawyer consultation.