What Are the Most Common Causes of Skiing Accidents?

The thrill of gliding down a snow-covered hill is hard to beat. Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports, and people from all over the world flock to ski resorts to enjoy adrenaline-filled adventures. However, all it takes is one serious fall or collision to turn an amazing trip into a painful one. Most ski accidents are caused by carelessness, but following these tips helps you avoid sustaining an injury that ruins your winter fun.

Failing to Wear a Helmet

Head injuries can cause anything from mild headaches to serious brain traumas, and most of the ones that occur on the slopes are preventable. You’ll need to wear a helmet meant specifically for skiing, since these helmets are different from what you wear for cycling. While you’re gearing up, make sure to also wear wrist guards along with knee and elbow pads to protect your joints. Wearing the right protective gear can allow you to get back up and keep skiing after a minor tumble. 

If you’re not bringing your own equipment on your skiing trip, make sure to find a reliable shop close to the slopes where you can get high-quality protective gear and rent skis. Mammoth skiers should rent their equipment at the mountain so it’s properly fitted, which is essential for injury prevention.

Not Knowing Your Limits

Being stuck on the bunny hill while all of your friends are flying down the advanced slopes is hard, but it’s one of the best things you can do to avoid injuries. Sticking to slopes that match your abilities helps you build your skills without having to worry about getting run over or going at a speed you can’t realistically manage. Trying to show off could result in injuries that end your fun for the rest of the season.

Forgetting to Warm Up

Skiing is a strenuous form of exercise, even if it feels like all you’re doing is having fun. Similar to what you do before going for a run, you’ll need to make sure your body’s muscles, joints, and ligaments are ready to be pushed to the max. Doing some basic stretches and a few minutes of light cardio helps your body be prepared to respond to sudden movements.

Not Respecting the Warning Signs

You’ll find signs all over the slopes. Some will tell you which slopes fit your skiing ability. Others warn you not to veer off the track into off-limits areas. Obeying the warning signs helps you avoid skiing into danger zones where accidents are more likely to occur. If you’re not sure what a symbol or sign means, ask someone who knows. Most ski lessons include teaching beginners what the various signs they’ll come across mean.

Skiing while Tired or Inebriated

Sharing a few celebratory drinks after a successful skiing adventure is common at many resorts. However, you don’t want to head back out after you’ve had an alcoholic beverage or two. As with driving or enjoying other sports, you need to have a clear head to make safe decisions. This also includes making sure you’ve had a good night’s sleep so you’ll be mentally fresh to avoid collisions and other hazards on the slope.

If you need advice on how to ski safely, drop by and chat with the experts at ASO Mammoth on your way to the slopes. We have great tips for beginning and veteran skiers alike, and we can hook you up with all the gear you need for an amazing mountain adventure. ASO Mammoth is the place to go for high-quality Mammoth ski rental, equipment, and safety tips from the experts. Come by and see us or give us a call at 760-965-3444.