Snowboarding is by far 1 of the best sports. The only down side to it's that falling does and will always happen. Obtaining injured and not being able to continue riding is the worst. Fortunately, there is snowboarding protective gear.
A beginner will be performing a bit a lot more falling than other a lot more experienced riders, but with less chances of a major injury. The most common snowboard injuries for a beginner are wrist and butt injuries. It's suggested to put on wrist guards. They could be bought separately from you gloves or you are able to buy gloves with wrist guards built in. Butt pads are also recommended. The newer generation of butt pads are really very comfortable. You are able to get lighter protection butt pads, like wearing boxer shorts, or heavy duty protection pads, either way your coccyx will be a great deal safer.
For intermediate or advanced riders who are truly pushing their limits as riders, wiping out is definitely going to happen, maybe not as often as a beginner but at higher speeds which increases the chances for a more serious injury. The snowboarding protective gear recommended will be full pads. These pads are also very comfortable and flexible. They make you really feel a lot safer which gives you an added sense of confidence.
No matter what level of riding you're at or what type of riding you are performing it is always suggested to wear a helmet. Other than a helmet though all the above protective gear is optional. If you feel like you might get injured or you're prone to injuries then wear the pads, but should you really feel like your bones are strong and you usually don't get hurt from falling then don't wear the pads. But it would be nice to personal some pads for when you do injure yourself but it's not serious enough to keep you from riding, you are able to then wear your pads so that if you do fall while riding you won't make a mild injury and turn it into a major 1.
Usually ride within your personal limits. Don't go crazy and start taking runs that your not ready for. Protective gear can greatly reduce your chances of obtaining hurt, but it's not like a guarantee that you won't get hurt. You need to use your typical sense when riding, if it doesn't really feel right than don't do it. Usually ride with friends also, this way if you do get injured they can usually alert ski patrol for you. Great luck, Have fun and Be Safe!