Safe Snowmobile Tips

December 26, 2022, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Snowmobiling is extremely popular in Ontario, particularly in the rural and northern regions. In the winter of 2019, there were 155,000 snowmobiles registered in Ontario. There are many more unregistered ones being ridden on private land.

They are a fun recreational vehicle, and transportation, and they are also workhorses on rural properties in the Ontario winter. However you find yourself on one you should know and obey the rules of the trails and roads, and follow safety tips.

Here are some of the most common tips:

1.      Take a training course. They will prepare you for the trail, and if you are between 12 and 15 they are required by law. If you don’t have a drivers licence you require one as well to get an operator’s licence.
2.      Pack smart – always carry a dry bag with socks, plastic bags, and gloves If you have extra space pack a sweater and extra pants.
3.      Listen for oncoming traffic. Don’t ride with headphones on.
4.      Ride to your ability. Big machines and high speeds make controlling the vehicle difficult.
5.      Watch for groomers on the trails.
6.      Keep your vision clear.
7.      Look at the forecast and be prepared. Considering delaying the ride if the forecast is bad.
8.      Know the trail before you set out. You should review the trail guide and if you are unfamiliar with the area be extremely cautious.
9.      Use extreme caution on the ice covered bodies of water, wear ice picks, and remember that no ice is 100% safe.
10.  Beware of fresh snow on trails. It can hide ice and slush.
11.  Ride sober always. Save the drinking and recreational drug use for the end of the day.
12.  Know your hand signals and use them – Left turn, right turn, stop, slow down, oncoming rider and last sled in line are all important. Using them and recognizing them will save lives and prevent accidents.
13.  Only ride on open trails. Only ride on private property if you have the permission of the landowner.
14.  Use extreme caution when crossing roadways.
15.  Avoid riding alone.

You can find links to safe riding and guidance on safety courses here for Ontario riders and here if you are riding in the USA.

If you are injured in a snowmobile accident remember that your insurance should provide you with benefits. As with all serious accident injuries you should contact one of our experienced personal injury lawyers at Deutschmann Personal Injury and Disability Law as soon as possible 1.519.742.7774
 
 image from  https://www.snowmobile.org/snowmobiling-safety.html

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.