Reader: Can helmets lead to skiing accidents by making people feel invincible?

William Breathes has already had to update his recent post about the number of Colorado skiing deaths this season twice due to new reports about casualties. Our readers have shared plenty of thoughts about the high number of fatalities. Here's one that suggests that one piece of safety apparel may...

By Michael Roberts

February 14, 2012

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William Breathes has already had to update his recent post about the number of Colorado skiing deaths this season twice due to new reports about casualties. Our readers have shared plenty of thoughts about the high number of fatalities. Here's one that suggests that one piece of safety apparel may cause other problems.

Jpkinney7 writes:

Could helmets give the skiier/snowboarder a false sense of immortality? "Hey, I've got a helmet on my head. I'm going to go super fast down this Double Diamond, Tree run!!! I am invincible!!!"

Know your limits people.

For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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