Snow sports accidents are becoming more and more expensive
The cost of snow sports accidents has increased by 66% since the turn of the millennium. One reason for this is that older people are more frequently involved in accidents. This is shown by the latest Suva analyses.
Since the turn of the millennium, the cost of snow sports accidents has increased by 66% to 298 million Swiss francs in 2013. Switzerland's accident insurers have registered just under 36,800 snow sports accidents. Compared to the past, older people are more likely to have accidents: While just under half of those involved in accidents were 35 or older in 2000, the figure was already around 60 % in 2013. Older snow sports enthusiasts have higher medical costs, as they are more susceptible to bone fractures and multiple injuries. At the same time, they draw higher per diems because they often earn more than younger athletes. Rising healthcare costs and higher wages are further factors in the increase in costs.
Accident prevention with the smartphone
Many accidents happen because snow sports enthusiasts do not correctly assess their braking distance. Suva's "Slope Track" app is useful here. It records the descent covered and supports skiers and snowboarders with tips for safe behavior on the slopes. "With the app, everyone can reflect on their run on the slopes and thus make a contribution to safe snow sports," says Samuli Aegerter, campaign manager for snow sports at Suva. "Slope Track" now includes the FIS, snowpark and snowboard rules. A popular part in the app for all age groups are the warm-up tips.
Tuning - warm up - run in
If you warm up before your first run on the slopes, you can prevent injuries. 13 short videos in the "Slope Track" app show various exercises and games for warming up - alone, in pairs or in a group. "Just as important as warming up is getting in the mood. Attention must be focused on skiing and snowboarding even before the first ride," says Aegerter. He further recommends starting the snow sports day at a leisurely pace to get to know the snow conditions and one's own daily form.
With its prevention activities, Suva aims to strengthen protective factors in skiing and snowboarding so that fewer accidents occur. Fewer accidents mean less suffering and lower costs. The latter, in turn, benefits Suva's policyholders, primarily in the form of lower premiums. Further information on Suva's snow sports prevention campaign can be found at www.suva.ch/schneesport.
A news video on the topic of "tune in - warm up - run in" is available here: www.photopress.ch.
