Risk factors for injury:
(1) age < 12 years, with head injuries more common if < 6 years of age
(2) presence of obstacles (rocks, trees, posts, poles, fire hydrant, buildings, automobiles, other)
(3) steep slopes
(4) ice
(5) poor lighting
(6) short, unprotected run-out areas, especially those ending in a street
(7) bumps or other conditions causing the person to thrown off the sled
(8) lack of supervision
(9) crowding or other conditions that increase the risk of collision with others
(10) inability to steer
(11) trying to brake using an extremity
(12) going airborne with a hard landing, especially if seated
(13) riding head first
(14) risk taking behavior
Factors that can reduce risk:
(1) fitted helmet
(2) layered and padded clothing with protective gloves and boots
(3) education about risk factors
