Skiing And Snowboarding Safety Tips You Might Not Already Know About

Winter activities may be exciting, but they’re also dangerous. Experts at the Center for Injury Research and Policy highlight the wrists and arms as chief areas of injury for snowboarders, while skiers more commonly encounter issues with their knees, heads, or faces.

Serious incidents often involve traumatic brain injuries, which are the leading cause of death in both sports. Thankfully, a variety of precautions can minimize these risks.

Wear Proper Safety Equipment

Far too many skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes without bothering to invest in necessary equipment. No matter how advanced their skill level, winter athletes can benefit from the use of goggles, properly fitted boots, and quality bindings. Snowboarders should also wear wrist guards.

Don’t Be Too Ambitious

Understand your skill level and what you can realistically handle. Many injuries occur due to overconfidence, which may prompt athletes to take on excessively challenging slopes and lose control. When in doubt, stick with slopes or routes that seem slightly too easy. Don’t hesitate to take lessons; even experienced skiers and snowboarders can benefit from the occasional refresher course.

Learn How to Fall

How you fall can determine how badly you’re injured. When skiing, aim to fall backward and to the right or left, rather than in between your skis. Resist the urge to break your fall with your hands or arms, as this could lead to wrist injuries. This rule also applies to snowboarding, in which successful falls involve bent knees. If falling backward, tuck your chin to avoid head injuries.

When you hit the slopes on your skis or snowboards, you expect safe premises and equipment. If you believe that negligence played a role in your winter injury, it’s in your best interest to seek legal support. Regan Zambri Long PLLC can help — reach out today to learn more about our personal injury services.