Despite the pandemic, around 15,000 people are expected to be injured across Austria in winter. Torn cruciate ligament, dislocated shoulder or a cheekbone fracture in the event of a collision: According to the Board of Trustees for Road Safety, there are one or two people for every 100 winter sports enthusiasts who go to hospital because of such injuries. When and on average for about six days.

Even if the number of accidents is low, there are still hundreds of hospital beds per day that are occupied in the winter season, according to the KfV. Since the hospital employees have their hands full with corona patients, it is essential to be particularly careful when traveling, according to the KFV.

“Up to 15,000 injured this year”

It can be assumed that there will be a decrease in piste accidents due to pandemic-related restrictions – i.e. the 2 G rule – but many ski tours are drawn to the free ski area.

Based on data from the last few years, there will be up to 15,000 injuries despite the pandemic, experts predict. In addition to inadequate planning, equipment and non-observance of piste rules, this is the lack of training: It is therefore particularly important to build strength and coordination through ski gymnastics.