How to Avoid Skiing Collisions

Even though skiing and snowboarding are all about having fun, there’s still serious danger on the slopes like skiing collisions that could result in injury or worse if you don’t give it proper attention.

Today, we’re focusing on skiing collisions on the slope and how you can avoid them so your day never ends early from hitting, or being hit by, someone else. Read all about our safety tips to avoid skiing collisions, and then stop by the ASO Mammoth shop for the best ski and snowboard rentals in Mammoth Lakes.

Remember the Basic Rule, Downhill Has the Right of Way

There aren’t many hard and fast rules when it comes to skiing and snowboarding, but the one you should absolutely remember is that the downhill skier or snowboarder always has the right of way.

What does that mean?

If someone is skiing or snowboarding in front of you, then it’s your responsibility to give them enough space to turn or stop as they see fit. You can still pass people if you give them enough space or tell them that you’re passing on their right or left. 

Ski and Snowboard in Control

You can’t avoid collisions if you can’t control your skis or snowboard, so always stay in control while on the slopes. That may sound obvious, but the line between challenging and out of control can be thin when you’re trying to push your skills.

Everyone has a right to challenge themselves and progress as a skier or snowboarder. You do not have a right to ride out of control though, so if you want to ski faster or try new tricks then do so away from crowded slopes.

Look Uphill Before Dropping into a Trail

Even though the downhill skier has the right of way, it’s important that they look uphill before dropping into a trail or cutting across one.

If two trails merge or a lift drops riders on a slope mid-way up it then it’s everyone’s responsibility to make sure their line is clear and to ski slowly through it. Even if you’re in the middle of the run, you should always look uphill before making a wide turn that cuts across it to avoid collisions.

Remember to never stop in the middle of a slope or out of sight from uphill skiers!

Obey Slow Signs

Ski resorts put slow signs up in high congestion areas, so don’t blow through them.

You don’t have to completely stop or crawl past slow signs, but you do need to slow down and make sure your line isn’t going to cross with anyone else’s.

Be Extra Careful at the Bottom of the Mountain

The base of the mountain is where beginner, intermediate, and expert skiers and snowboarders all mix, and the congestion and difference in skill makes for an unpredictable and dangerous area.

Be especially careful and aware of other skiers and snowboarders when near the base. Some people will still be learning there, so slow down and save tricks and butters for higher up the mountain.