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According to research recently published in the journal Injury Prevention, brain injuries caused by skiing and snowboarding are on the rise. People under 35 are three times more likely to incur these fatal and catastrophic injuries than older skiers. Males are 2.2 times more likely to incur a brain injury than females. While brain injuries make up a small percentage of the injuries caused by winter sports, they are the largest portion of fatal and catastrophic injuries incurred while skiing and snowboarding. Skiers and snowboarders are taking more risks on the slopes. The researchers say that higher speeds, and more jumping and acrobatics are contributing to the rise in brain injuries. How brain injuries occur on the slopes
Many types of skiing and snowboarding accidents can cause brain injuries including:
· Skier to skier collisions
· Impact with snow surface
· Impact with trees
· Impact with man made objects (such as ski lift poles)
· Lift accidents Skier to skier collisions may not sound so bad, but when they happen at high speeds the impact can be extreme. They can also involve taking a ski or snowboard to the head. If you’ve never gone skiing you might be surprised at how hard that snow can be. The snow on ski slopes gets packed down into a solid surface as more and more people pass over it. Thawing and refreezing can turn powder into rock-hard ice. Prevention
Wearing a helmet may help protect your brain while skiing and snowboarding. According to the report helmets can reduce the risk of serious brain injury anywhere from 22 to 50 percent. Stick to slopes that are within your skill range and always be aware of your surroundings. Check to make sure that all of your equipment is in good working condition before you get on the lift. This includes boots and bindings. Who is responsible?
Skiers have a duty to ski within their ability to maintain control and to watch out for skiers below them. Skiers and snowboarders can be held responsible when they cause accidents due to recklessness. When you choose to go up on the mountain you accept certain inherent risks of winter sports. Ski areas cannot be held liable for these basic risks, but they can be held responsible when they are negligent. If you or a loved one has incurred a brain injury while skiing or snowboarding, contact an experienced brain injury attorney today.
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