British skiers want safety on the slopes
15th January 2012
British skiers would welcome motoring style deterrents on the slopes to prevent accidents caused by dangerous skiing, says a new study
A study by MORE TH>N Travel Insurance has found that British skiers would support road-style policing measures on the slopes in order to reduce the number of accidents and injuries caused by irresponsible skiers.
A staggering 92% of the study participants said they would back measures including speed cameras, speed limit signs, ski patrols, breathalysers and compulsory helmets, as well as penalty points and fines for those caught breaking the rules.
The study also found that 47% of British skiers believe 'speed skiing' is increasingly becoming a worry on the slopes, with 33% saying they had been involved in an accident or near miss as a result of fellow skiers moving too quickly.
Alcohol took the blame as the biggest cause of dangerous speed by 37% of participants, and 36% said lack of awareness also attributed. Irresponsible young skiers, and new technology enabling skiers to record their top speeds also took part of the blame.
Although almost half of the participants said helmets should be made mandatory, only 43% said they would actually wear them, citing vanity and discomfort as reasons not to.
Matt Pernet Head of MORE TH>N Travel Insurance said: "It’s perhaps surprising how many skiers would like to see motoring style deterrents, checks and punishments introduced on the piste.
"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."
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