Aspies For Freedom

Man, 60, Sues Boy, 8, Over Ski Collision
23 hours ago

VAIL, Colo. — A 60-year-old man is taking an 8-year-old boy and his dad to court, claiming the boy caused a ski-slope collision that left the older man with a shoulder injury.

David J. Pfahler of Allentown, Pa., sued in federal court in Denver, claiming Scott Swimm, then 7, was skiing fast and recklessly when they collided in January, the Vail Daily reported Thursday.

The suit claims Pfahler suffered a torn shoulder tendon and seeks compensation for physical therapy, vacation time, nursing and medical services provided by Pfahler's wife, and other expenses. It estimates the couple's losses at more than $75,000.

Scott's father, Robb Swimm, said that he saw the crash and that Scott was skiing slowly and in control.

"It wasn't a violent collision or anything; Scott just kind of tapped his ski boots," he said this week.

Scott's mother, Susan Swimm, said her son weighs 48 pounds and couldn't have been going more than 10 mph.

"Who in the world sues a child?" she said. "It just boggles my mind every day."

Pfahler's Denver attorney, Jim Chalat, declined to comment on specifics but says Pfahler, who works for Reader's Digest, wants to go back to work.

I can't see how it would have cost that much for the treatment and all, either. This sue you mentality has got way out of hand and it's too bad people couldn't counter-sue for the mental distress caused by these frivolous suits but then again, that would only compound the issue.

Don't people in the states have to prove that there is a case to answer before suing someone? This is madness.

Scott's mother, Susan Swimm, said her son weighs 48 pounds and couldn't have been going more than 10 mph.

Jeez, this guy is being stupid. Has he ever wondered if it might be an accident? Unless he has prooof that the 8-year-old was a hired hitman or something, I think he shouldn't take legal action like this.