Snowmobile Safety Tips For Riders in Whitby, Oshawa, and Ajax
During the winter time, many people decide to take to the great outdoors. While some of us are all about skiing or snowboarding, there are just as many people who will be using snowmobiles.
In fact, many people use a snowmobile throughout the winter in Canada to get to those places that may be too hard to venture into with just a vehicle.
However, for those who will be driving a snowmobile this winter, there are several snowmobile safety tips that you are going to want to keep in mind.
Who Can Drive a Snowmobile?
It is important to note who can legally drive a snowmobile. While you can drive a snowmobile at the age of 12, this doesn’t mean that you can drive this anywhere that you want. Keep these stats in mind:
- If you are under the age of 12 you must have a valid MSVOL and you are permitted to be on snowmobile trails only.
- Those who are under the age of 12 or who have no valid license, then they are limited to driving on their private property only.
- Those who are 16 and over can drive with a valid license and can drive on snowmobile trails, across roads where permitted and on roadways that permit it.
A Few Rules to Remember
Snowmobiles drivers need to remember the rules of the road so that they are not committing any act that is against the law. Here are a few things to remember:
Remember that there are speed limits in place for snowmobiles, just like there are for other vehicles.
- On snowmobile trails the speed limit is often 50 km/h
- Roads with a speed limit that is over 50 km/h means that a snowmobile can go 50 km/h
- On roads with a speed limit that is at 50 km/h or less, a snowmobile can go 20 km/h
- On any public park or grounds that are considered public, the speed limit is 20 km/hr.
- Everyone must wear a helmet while they are riding on a snowmobile. This is also in effect for those who may be riding on something that is being pulled by the snowmobile.
- Never drive a snowmobile while impaired with drugs or alcohol. You can face the same types of charges if you are found to be driving one of these under the influence, just as if you were in a car or truck. Do note that if you are found to be driving under the influence with a snowmobile, if you were to lose your license this will be for any vehicle, not only a snowmobile.
- Stay on the right-hand side of the trail at all times, just as you would when driving a car.
Extra Safety Tips for Driving a Snowmobile
If you are planning on driving your snowmobile, there are several safety tips that can help you to stay safe while out riding:
- Always tell someone where you are going, what route you will be taking and other information in the event that you get lost and need a rescue.
- Be sure to do checks on the snowmobile before you head out. This means checking the fuel, adding gas to the tank, and also check the weather.
- Be sure that you dress appropriately! While on a snowmobile you could be facing some harsh weather and you do not want to risk exposure to these conditions as this can cause frostbite and/or hypothermia.
- Be sure to bring a first aid kit while riding that includes simple items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other items.
- Have a GPS with you or even a map and compass in the vent that you get lost.
- Be sure to bring a kit that has emergency materials with it such as high energy foods, flashlight, saws, a set of dry clothing, whistle, matches, and other items.
- A spare mechanical kit is always a good idea that includes an extra drive belt, tow rope, hammer, wrenches and the like. Be sure to carry your owner’s manual with you so that you are not stranded when you have no idea what to fix.
- If you are driving at night, be sure that you wear reflective clothing so that you can be seen by others who may be on the trails.
- Be careful of bodies of water. While many people find it fun to ride across those flat planes, remember all it takes is one crack to not only lose your snowmobile to water but perhaps even your life.
- Never drink and drive a snowmobile! Remember, drinking while operating a snowmobile is just as dangerous as if you were to be behind the wheel of a car. And the police can prosecute in the same manner whether you are in a car or on a snowmobile.
- Be sure to take a safety course on using your snowmobile, these safety courses can teach you a lot about what to do in extreme situations as well as basic road rules that you need to remember.
- Slow down when the day begins to get dark, just as you would while driving a regular automobile. Remember, you want to be able to see in front of you, so do not drive faster than what you are seeing with your headlights.
What Happens if an Accident Occurs?
Despite the best of intentions, there are often times that a snowmobile accident does occur.
In many situations, an accident occurs because another driver was not paying attention, or they were not obeying the rules set out for driving a snowmobile.
When this happens, what should you do?
As with any accident, be sure that the police are called, and both drivers are fine. If not, then call for emergency services to help everyone get to the ER if needed.
After a police report has been filed, then you need to talk with a personal injury attorney. Why not let the insurance companies handle this?
Mainly because insurance companies often don’t have your best interests in mind when they are handling a case. They are more concerned with monetary payouts rather than what other components you may need.
Can you sue the manufacturer of the snowmobile? This is a common question.
In some cases, in which a manufacturing defect is to blame for the accident, then this would fall under product liability. Meaning that you could sue the manufacturer.
However, in many cases, the accident is the cause of another driver or even weather issues, which means the manufacturer is not responsible.
Here at Conte Jaswal, we work hard for you to make sure that you get the best settlement that is going to not only cover your injuries and medical bills but help you put your best foot forward once you have healed.
We build your case and go after the person that is responsible, so you can sit back, relax and heal from your injuries.
Call us today for a free consultation if you have been injured while snowmobiling. We are waiting for your call!
Contact us today for a FREE Consultation.
