An analysis of skiing injuries in West Virginia

This study analyzes the injuries of 124 skiers who presented to the emergency department of a hospital near four major ski resorts in West Virginia, and identifies possible prevention strategies. Data was gathered about demographics, nature of injury, causal factors, prevention strategies, and ultimate outcome as measured by disposition. Haddon's method of injury analysis was then applied, dividing cause of injury into host, vehicle, and environmental factors. Most skiers identified host error as cause of injury. Of the 60% of skiers who reported that their injury could have been prevented, most named some form of behavior modification as the most likely prevention strategy. The remaining skiers did not realize that their injury could have been prevented. This finding highlights the need for prevention education to decrease the number of skiing injuries.