Gliding is approximately 35 times more risky than driving; 70 times more dangerous than riding a bike; and 3 times more dangerous than riding a motorbike. The chance of dying per hour spent engaged in a specific activity. The most common type of accident among gliders happens when you crash into something. You are 10 times more likely to die in a car crash than while flying one. This is because cars have strong bones and skin that can protect the body inside from harm if the car crashes. Gliders, on the other hand, are light and often made of plastic which means they may break off after hitting something hard enough to cause serious injury or death. The second most common type of accident is running out of gas. This will usually mean stopping somewhere safe to make a plan of action. If you do not do this then you may land in someone's field or keep going until you run out of fuel. The third most common type of accident is fire. This can be caused by an electrical short in the aircraft which can start flames if it gets hot enough. It can also be caused by leaking petrol which causes flames if it comes in contact with air. The fourth most common type of accident is collision with another glider or object outside of a glide.