This article discusses two types of potentially hazardous situations found at ski and snowboard terrain parks. Terrain Park Safety Ski and snowboard areas have made great strides in improving terrain…
In this article, the winter sports experts discuss common causes of collisions between skiers and snowboarders, and provide tips for avoiding collisions at ski areas.
Equipment advances, signage, and the “Responsibility Code”, developed by the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), have all aided in improving skier and snowboarder safety at ski areas.
NSAA Responsibility Code
Despite safety advances, many injuries from collisions occur on the mountains every year. The winter sports experts at Robson Forensic are frequently retained to investigate these incidents when the injuries are severe. In this article we address the behavioral aspects most frequently at issue in skier and snowboarder collisions.
Speed Control - One common cause of collisions between skiers and snowboarders is the result of one or both individuals traveling too fast for their abilities. Ski areas clearly mark the difficulty rating for each trail since not all runs can usually be seen from the bottom of the mountain and/or it may be difficult to appreciate how steep or narrow a trail is from far away.
All skiers and snowboarders should develop their speed control, turning, and stopping skills on easier runs before venturing into more challenging areas. Skiing and snowboarding are skill sports and a gradual progression is necessary in order to responsibly maintain control and avoid collisions.
Observing Signs - Another common cause of collisions between individuals at ski areas is the failure by one or both parties to alter speed and behavior in slow zones, congested areas, while on beginner runs, or in sections where trails merge or intersect. Ski areas generally post signs prior to these zones as a safety measure - to emphasize the need for awareness and controlled skiing and snowboarding. Disregarding warnings or failing to exercise restraint through these sections of the mountain creates a dangerous condition and increases the risk of collision.
Safe Passing - Getting too close to another person while passing is also a cause of collisions between skiers and snowboarders. As a result, ski areas make an effort to educate skiers and snowboarders of the Responsibility Code since often times, the individual being passed is unaware that they are being overtaken. It is the responsibility of the uphill skier to exercise reasonable care and only pass when there is ample space to do so and at a rate of speed that provides the ability to stop or otherwise safely react to any movements made by the skier or snowboarder they are passing.
Tips for Avoiding Skier and Snowboarder Collisions
Ski Area Safety Measures for Reducing Skier and Snowboarder Collisions
Our experts are often retained to investigate severe injuries and/or assess risks at ski and snowboard areas and other winter sports parks. The scope of our investigations will typically include an analysis of how the injury happened and the condition of the equipment and environment in which it occurred. In addition, our winter sports experts provide proactive risk assessment consultation to mountain resorts in an effort to prevent incidents.
For more information visit our Winter Sports practice page.
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