## Tandem Skydiving Accidents in the United States
Tandem skydiving is a popular recreational activity that involves jumping out of an airplane while attached to an experienced skydiving instructor. While generally considered a safe activity, tandem skydiving does carry some inherent risks, and accidents can and do occur.
### How Many Tandem Skydiving Accidents per Year in the US?
According to the United States Parachute Association (USPA), there were a total of 3,623 tandem skydiving jumps in the United States in 2020. Of these jumps, there were 21 serious injuries and no fatalities. This represents an accident rate of 0.58 serious injuries per 1,000 jumps.
It is important to note that this accident rate is significantly lower than the accident rate for solo skydiving. In 2020, there were a total of 580,217 solo skydiving jumps in the United States, resulting in 30 serious injuries and 2 fatalities. This represents an accident rate of 0.052 serious injuries per 1,000 jumps.
### Causes of Tandem Skydiving Accidents
The majority of tandem skydiving accidents are caused by human error. Some of the most common causes include:
Instructor error: This can include errors in equipment preparation, communication, or jump procedures.
Student error: This can include failing to follow instructions, panicking, or not landing properly.
Equipment failure: This is a relatively rare cause of accidents, but it can occur if the equipment is not properly maintained or inspected.
### Risk Factors for Tandem Skydiving Accidents
There are certain factors that can increase the risk of a tandem skydiving accident, including:
Weight: Tandem skydivers must be within a certain weight range in order to participate. Being overweight or underweight can increase the risk of injury.
Health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, can increase the risk of complications during a tandem skydive.
Alcohol or drug use: Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of an accident.
Weather conditions: Tandem skydiving is typically not performed in bad weather, such as high winds or rain. However, if the weather conditions change suddenly, it can increase the risk of an accident.
### How to Reduce the Risk of a Tandem Skydiving Accident
There are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of a tandem skydiving accident, including:
Choose a reputable skydiving company. Make sure the company is licensed and insured, and has a good safety record.
Get a thorough briefing before your jump. The skydiving instructor will explain the procedures and risks involved, and will help you to prepare for the jump.
Follow the instructions of your skydiving instructor. This is the most important thing you can do to stay safe during your jump.
Be aware of the risks. Tandem skydiving is a safe activity, but there are some inherent risks involved. Be aware of these risks and take steps to mitigate them.
### Conclusion
Tandem skydiving is a safe and exciting activity, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. By choosing a reputable skydiving company, getting a thorough briefing, following the instructions of your skydiving instructor, and being aware of the risks, you can help to reduce the risk of a tandem skydiving accident.
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