Speed cameras and breath tests... on the ski lopes
Diving for cover as a skier bombs past is a familiar experience on the piste. In order to curb dangerous skiing and boarding, many British skiers would welcome deterrents and punishments normally used on our roads - including speed cameras and breathalysers - introduced on the slopes abroad.
According to new research released by MORE TH>N travel insurance, almost half (47 per cent) of British skiers say ‘speed skiing' is becoming an increasing problem. The consequences of a high-speed collision should not be underestimated and can result in broken bones and ruined holidays.
Of those surveyed, a third (33 per cent) say they have had an accident or near miss as a result of someone skiing dangerously fast on the slopes. A fifth (21 per cent) admitted they had an accident or a near miss as a result of skiing too fast themselves and over a quarter (30 per cent) of those surveyed also said that ski culture had become more aggressive and selfish.
In order to reduce accidents and injuries caused by skiers going too fast, 92 per cent of Brits would favour preventative actions and punishments, similar to those used on roads, including:
More ski patrols to cut down on speed (48 per cent);
Helmets made compulsory on ski slopes (46 per cent);
Speed limits - with signs (30 per cent);
Bans for speeding on recreational slopes (26 per cent);
Warnings and safety advice with GPS ski speed technology (25 per cent);
Breathalysers (18 per cent); and
Penalty points with fines (10 per cent).
The most common excuses given for skiing too fast were alcohol (37 per cent), lack of awareness of dangers (36 per cent), irresponsible younger skiers (25 per cent) and also GPSspeed ski technology (29 per cent) that enables people to record and show off their highest speeds.
Research published in the British Medical Journal suggested helmets could reduce head injuries by 35 per cent in adult skiers. A number of high-profile accidents in recent years has led to greater helmet usage and calls for them to be compulsory, but the MORE TH>N research reveals only 43 per cent of British skiers wear them, compared to 57 per cent in the United States.
However, when asked why they chose not to wear helmets it seems British skiers are simply ignoring the safety benefits and are resistant to change. Discomfort (36 per cent) was the main factor followed by ‘prefer to feel the wind in my hair' (32 per cent) and ‘vanity - I look better without it' (23 per cent).
According to Matt Pernet, Head of MORE TH>N Travel Insurance, "It's perhaps surprising how many skiers would like to see motoring style deterrents, checks and punishments introduced on the piste. Aside from the potentially life changing consequences of dangerous skiing, if someone is responsible for an accident and has been drinking they won't be covered on their insurance policy.
"As with driving, the best form of prevention is to act responsibly and be aware of the potential risks and hazards. Although helmets may not be seen by all as a ‘sexy' option they could save your life in the event of a collision or fall."