Inline skating is a great way to exercise and unwind; however, it can also be dangerous. Accidents caused by dangerous premises, negligent drivers, or defective products can result in a terrible accident that causes traumatic injuries. Skaters need always to be aware of the dangers and take precautions to keep themselves safe while they are learning the sport and even when they are experienced skaters.
Tips for Beginners
When you or your child is beginning to enjoy inline skating, there are several tips that can help you master the sport while avoiding a serious accident:
- Make sure you are wearing the proper size skates. Skates that do not fit well can cause you to be unstable and result in an inline skating injury.
- Everyone should wear a helmet for protection; however, children should always wear a helmet. Helmets should be replaced after a major impact or every two to three years.
- Wearing protective gear such as knee pads, wrist guards, and elbow pads can help prevent some of the most common injuries of inline skating — falls will happen to everyone, even experienced skaters.
- Before skating, take five minutes to warm up like you would for any exercise. This can help reduce the risk of pulled or torn muscles.
- Take an instruction class. Inline skating is different from other types of skating. An instruction class can give you and your child many insider tips to help improve your skating.
- Practice stopping and then practice some more. It is very important that you have this skill perfected as soon as possible.In addition, learn how to control your speed so that you do not lose control.
- Do not attempt courses or trails that are above your expertise level. You can be seriously injured.
Tips for Beginners and Seasoned Skaters
Even the most experienced inline skater needs to remember the basic rules for preventing accidents and injuries when skating:
- Inspect equipment before each activity. Faulty, broken, or defective equipment is dangerous. Never skate with equipment that is not in top condition.
- Always choose a safe location to skate — avoid high traffic areas and choose a location with even
- Avoid distractions while skating. Do not use your cell phone, wear headphones, or use other devices that can be distracting, impair your ability to hear warnings, or impair your vision.
- Do not skate in wet conditions or at night.
- Respect others at all times. If you are an experienced skater, remember that others may still be learning. Beginners should try to avoid areas where experienced skaters may be performing tricks or attempting difficult routes.
- Follow the same rules as traffic — skate to the far right, pass on the left, and let others know when you are about to pass. Do not skate too close to the person in front of you.
- Watch for road debris, hazards, and dangerous conditions that can cause a crash.
Common Injuries Caused by Inline Skating Accidents
Inline skating accident can result in complex fractures that require numerous surgeries and extensive physical therapy. Wrist fractures are very common because most skaters attempt to break their fall with their hands. Also, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, back and neck trauma, and lacerations are all very common. Any of these injuries can be serious and result in long-term disability. Medical and personal care can quickly reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Call an Experienced Ontario Personal InjuryLawyer
If negligence or carelessness caused your accident, the team of lawyers at Diamond and Diamond can help. Call our 24/7 injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURT or visit our website to speak to someone now. We offer free consultations and case evaluations.
