Gwyneth Paltrow Accused of Negligence in 2016 Ski Crash on Utah Mountain
A witness testified in court on Tuesday that actress Gwyneth Paltrow was responsible for a 2016 ski collision that left retired optometrist Terry Sanderson with four broken ribs and a traumatic brain injury. Sanderson has sued Paltrow for negligence, and she has countersued him for negligence as well. The trial, which began with opening arguments on Tuesday, centers around the dueling negligence claims. Sanderson is seeking $3 million in damages, while Paltrow is seeking $1.
The witness, Greg James Ramone, an acquaintance of Sanderson’s who was skiing with him on the day of the collision, testified that he saw Paltrow crash into Sanderson’s back. “I heard this scream, I looked over, and then I saw this skier slam into the back of Terry (Sanderson),” Ramone told the court, referring to Paltrow. “Very hard, and she hit him directly in the back.”
Ramone said that Sanderson fell face first with his skis split, with Paltrow on top of his back. A Deer Valley ski instructor teaching Paltrow’s son approached them and shouted at Sanderson, who was unresponsive, Ramone testified. Paltrow left the scene minutes after the collision, according to Ramone and Sanderson’s attorney.
During cross-examination, Ramone waffled on aspects of his deposition and was grilled by Paltrow’s lawyer about the amount of time Paltrow was on the scene after the accidents, and how close of friends he and Sanderson were ahead of the crash. In particular, Ramone denied knowing the contents of an email Sanderson sent family members hours after the crash titled “I’m Famous.”
The trial is expected to continue for several days, as both sides present their cases and call witnesses. Paltrow’s attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the case.
Skiing accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of their level of experience or skill. It is important to always ski responsibly and follow safety guidelines while on the mountain to avoid unnecessary accidents and injuries.
