Snowmobile Safety Tips

Here are some safety tips for the proper operation of snowmobiles.

1) Do not drink alcohol or use drugs. According to Dpt. of Natural Resources, alcohol is involved in 70% of the snowmobiling fatalities last year.

2) Always use a helmet. It can significantly reduce the possibility of serious injury fatality. Make sure your helmet fits properly and is fasten securely. Make sure it was purchased within the last 5 to 8 years as older helmets offer less protection. Always inspect your helmet to make sure it is not cracked or damaged.

3) Always ride with another person if possible. This way if you are involved in an accident or injury, the other person is able to contact the appropriate authorities. Additionally, if one machine would break down you would not be stranded and would be able to get out of remote locations.

4) Always dress appropriately and wear layers of clothing in order to stay warm and dry. Your suit should repel both water and wind and keep you ventilated.

5) Always obey the speed limit and reduce your speed especially at night.

6) Always stay to the right. On almost every trail there is a two way trail. You should stay on the right side of the trail and obey all signs and roadways with caution. Never operate your snowmobile on private property unless you have the consent of the owner. You could be liable for trespassing and there may be hidden dangers which you are unaware of.

7) Try to avoid riding on lakes and rivers, as often times it is difficult to tell if the lake is frozen over completely or whether there may be thinner weak areas where water may be running into the lake from a stream or other water source causing the ice to be thin

8) Always let someone know your plans, where you are planning to go and when you are planning to return. This way if you are not back at your schedule or shortly there after they may be able to call authorities to do a safety check.

9) It a good idea to carry a safety kit and repair kit. The kit should contain a spare belt, sparked plugs, extra ranches, nuts and bolts, wire jack knife etc…

Contact one of our Wisconsin Snowmobile Accident and Injury Lawyers at 414-774-7330 for more information about your case.