- Horseback
riding carries a higher injury rate per hour of exposure than downhill
ski racing, football, hang-gliding and motorcycle racing.
- Medical
Examiner reports show that 60% or more of horse-related deaths are caused
by head injuries. Helmets can reduce this possibility by 70-80%.
- Each
year approximately 70,000 people are treated in emergency rooms because
of equestrian related activities.
- The
American Medical Equestrian Association calculates that ASTM/SEI approved
helmets have reduced all riding-related head injuries by 30% and severe
head injuries by 50%.
- Repeated
trauma to the head, even when minimal, can cause cumulative damage to
the brain. Each new accident expands the original damage and the brain
cannot recover 100% from injury.
- Riders
under the age of formerly had the highest head injury rate. Expanded
use of ASTM/SEI helmets among this age group has shifted the highest
head injury rate to those people ages 22-35.
- Non-ASTM/SEI
certified helmets offer no protection whatsoever and are strictly for
cosmetic purposes.
- Head
injuries are responsible for more than 60% of horse-related deaths.
- Head
injuries are the most common reason for horse-related hospital admissions.
- Liablity
insurance must be provided by manufacturers on their porducts as part
of the SEI certification process.
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