Ski -events 2025: injuries due to overconfidence on the slopes!

Ski -events 2025: injuries due to overconfidence on the slopes!

In the current ski season 2024/2025, the Pyhrn-Eisenwurzen Clinic (PEK) records alarming numbers after skiing and snowboard accidents. By the end of January, 395 injuries have already been treated there, which means an increase of more than 25 percent compared to the previous year. This reflects the increasing popularity of winter sports, but also harbors considerable dangers. Trauma surgeon Primar Harald Stöcker points out that, above all, difficult injuries such as spinal and pelvic breaks as well as internal organ injuries occur more frequently, some of which can be life-threatening. So reports meinzirk.at On the increasing number of complicated injuries in the Austrian Alps.

more accidents despite helmet obligation

While the helmet has now become a widespread protective measure on the slopes, the reality shows that the number of accidents still increase. Harald Stöcker explains that the helmet contributes to reducing severe head injuries, but collisions between skiers are piling up, especially when the slopes are heavily frequented. "False assessments of one's own skills and external circumstances often lead to accidents," said the trauma surgeon. In the previous season, the figures in the PEK have risen by 30 percent compared to the previous year, such as orf.at reported

Stöcker recommends that in addition to the helmet also wear a protector vest to minimize injuries to the spine and other body areas. The expert particularly emphasizes the risks due to fatigue and overexertion in the afternoon when many athletes lose control when concentrated. In order to ensure security on the slopes, he appeals to all skiers and snowboard drivers to avoid excessive speed and always pay attention to others. "The speed that is reached on the slopes is much higher than before. This increases the risk of serious injuries," says Stöcker. Further warnings concern alcohol consumption. "Alcohol slows down the ability to react and many only come to the clinic late in the afternoon," adds Stöcker.