Dan Holt, a former Whistler resident, is suing Whistler Blackcomb for a drunken fall at a slo-pitch party that left him quadriplegic a year and a half ago.
On April 27, Holt filed documents with the Supreme Court of British Columbia that claim not only did the operators of Whistler Blackcomb over serve alcohol to people who were visibly intoxicated, but they also did not ensure the party was safe.
The slo-pitch season party was held on Sept. 28, 2008 at the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain.
During the party, Holt and other revelers gathered at the top of a staircase to leave the premises, which was allegedly over crowded. According to Holt, people jostled each other at the top, descended the stairs too quickly, ran and jumped down the stairs, and slid down the handrails.
Holt says he fell from the staircase onto a concrete landing, leaving him permanently paralyzed.
Since the accident, Holt and his partner have relocated to Vancouver for medical treatment. He is currently unemployed. Beyond his paralysis, he says he also suffers from chronic pain and anxiety. He also says he will now always require medical and rehabilitative care, along with assistance in daily life activities.
In the court documents, the 26 year old says he wants Whistler Blackcomb and several people associated with the Whistler Slo-Pitch League to pay for damages he suffered, including loss of income, future care costs and loss of housekeeping capacity.
Holt is being represented by Brahm Martz, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver.
Known for his head of red hair and outgoing personality, Holt worked in Whistler Blackcomb's lift operations as well as at the door at Moe Joe's Night Club during his time in Whistler.
After Holt's accident, Moe Joe's held two fundraisers to help him pay bills and cover experiences, as well as to buy him a wheelchair. They raised over $5,000.
Holt, who is originally from Australia, received his Canadian citizenship in 2008.
Neither Holt nor Whistler Blackcomb responded to interview requests prior to deadline.
