Getting dropped in by a friend
Surfing is Risky! last session I had a surf accident, where I injured myself a little bit (only a bruised leg). You might think surfing is fun, sunny conditions, sunsets and palm trees. And yes, that is true, but not always. I got hurt on this beautiful day… a Monday off course ☹
The situation
The surf conditions where great; almost clean, little onshore breeze, big waves even barreling at times. The set-waves where about 2 -2.5 meter and this got my heart pumping. Some friends in the water and good vibes also.
The accident happened by accident for sure! Because I got dropped in by one of my friends (WHAAAT) …He wiped out during his kick out getting under the lip of the wave. I wiped out getting pushed off the wave. I fell on top of my board or his board. We were tumbling under water but after a few seconds got back up for air. Checking in: “yo buddy are you oké? Is your board oké?”
We were both fine no broken bones or boards, we paddled back out and after some I am sorry, my bad, are you really ok??
We paddled out and surfed further. I was frustrated but caught some waves after the accident and went out of the water.
Later that day we talked about the situation. I had a bruised leg because of the board and he had some pain in the neck and shoulder, because I fell on top of him.
What happened?
So, what happened before this surf accident?… We both saw a set-wave coming, and both decided that it could be surfable, but we had to position better for the wave
- I paddled to the peak of the wave, turned around paddled in, saw my friend also peddling made the drop and then saw my friend also making the take-off. I screamed. Saw him kicking out under the lip. Just one second later I got thrown of the board by 2-meter white water and had the wipe out.
- My friend paddled further down the line to the shoulder of the wave. He looked at his take off zone (he didn’t see me) takes off… then he heard me screaming behind him. He immediately tried to escape and give me the possibility to surf the wave further. Gets sucked under by the lip and then I crash onto him
- I had right of wave, because I was closer to the peak of the wave (see surf rules!)
- We forgot to communicate before and tell that We wanted that wave before peddling to the peak/shoulder (We both took off in different places)
- He didn’t see me, or did not look further then the take-off zone.
- We had a clash but are fine.
- Communication is Key, especially in challenging conditions!
- Always check and re-check the wave just before take-off
- Look further than only your take-off zone
Surfing Etiquette
It’s important to learn the correct etiquette while surfing, to prevent surf accidents and injuries. Most of the do’s and don’ts are an advice and can be used in most occasions. Please try to apply these unwritten and international rules, keep yourself out of trouble, and enjoy your surfing.
- Observe Right of Way; Learn who has the right of way on the wave
Furthest out: the surfer that is furthest out or that has been waiting longest
Furthest inside: the closest surfer to the peak of the breaking wave
First to feet: the first to feet or first onto the wave - Communication: the call of “Left!” or “Right!” if the wave is dual-peaking
- Don’t Drop In Cutting in front of other surfers who are up and riding is a quick way of getting yourself in trouble or injured with other surfers. Observe the right of way.
- Don’t Snake; Repeatedly paddling round someone to get into the inside position on a wave is a no-no
- Don’t Hog the Waves; Share them around. Even if you can paddle furthest outside and catch the waves first every time you reach the lineup, don’t do it often.
- Do Apologize; If you drop in on someone, run over someone, or breach the etiquette and rules in any way, just apologize. It’s just good manners. We’ve all done things that we shouldn’t have when out surfing, saying sorry goes a long way to smoothing things over.
- Respect the Locals; Keep in mind that the locals surf the spot every day. Give respect while visiting a spot, keep things friendly, earn some respect for yourself. Don’t mob surf spots in large numbers. Don’t rush straight outside, take your time. Say hello to the locals and ask advise if you are still learning
- Learn the Right Way to Paddle Out; This includes not ditching your board or paddling into the path of other surfers. Take a moment to observe the waves and time your paddle out accordingly with the timing of sets and use your best judgment to avoid other surf users. If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask a lifeguard.
- Surf a Spots that Suit your Ability; Try not to pick a spot that is out of your ability range. You’ll only end up upsetting the other surfers by getting in the way or being a potential hazard for everyone. Always check with lifeguards if you are unsure on where to surf.
- Help other Surfers; Always aid another surfer in trouble. Surfing can be dangerous and even fatal, look after each other.
- Respect the Beach; Leave only footprints. Don’t litter, graffiti, vandalize, or otherwise impact the beach or surroundings.
- Make sure you have proper and functional equipment such as a leash, sunscreen, and wetsuit for cold or warm conditions.
- Remember to inquire with local Lifeguards or surf schools for detailed information on safety, rules, and conditions.
- Enjoy the waves and share the stoke!
Please comment if you ever had a similar situation, have some questions or just your reaction to this story. Be safe, have fun, share the stoke & stories… Wibi/Wijbrand
