Avoid These Common Winter Sports Accidents
Its the time of year when many people head off to the snowy slopes for a little winter sports fun. Skiing and snowboarding have never been more popular but many people seem oblivious to the dangers that these sports can present.
The rates of accidents for skiers and snowboarders are about the same. It has been observed that reckless behaviour has been cited as a key cause of many collisions and accidents. And reckless behaviour is not specific to either skiers or snowboarders. Both skiers and snowboarders are equally responsible for reckless behaviour that puts others at risk.
Damage to the knees is by far the most common form of skier and snowboarder injury that occurs as a result of collisions. Every year there is a catalogue of injuries arising from the ski and snowboard slopes including serious incidents resulting in brain damage, paralysis and even death.
Here is just a glance at some of the most common accidents that occur on the slopes.
Collisions.
The skier responsibility code says that those on the slope ahead of you have right of way. Avoiding them is your responsibility. Unfortunately many people are unaware of the responsibility code and often don’t have the skills necessary to avoid collisions.
Collisions can result in minor injuries but, unfortunately, are often very serious with head to head contact resulting in broken noses, teeth knocked out and even fractured skulls. The most common injury on the slopes as a result of collisions is damage to the legs.
And remember that collisions are not limited to people running into other people. Snowboarders and skiers often run into stationary objects like trees, buildings and maintenance vehicles. When travelling at speed colliding with a stationary object can result in particularly serious injuries.
Falling.
Falling over is quite common, particularly when people are just learning to ski or snowboard. Falling over is another way that many skiers damage their knees.
Avalanches.
Very few recreational skiers or snowboarders will ever have to negotiate an avalanche. Remaining within the indicated safe areas should be enough to avoid avalanches.
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If you are headed for some winters sports fun this season make certain that you have some good ski insurance or adventure travel insurance that will cover you in the event that you suffer injury on the slopes. Travel insurance should be at the top of your travel essentials list wherever you are going.
