How to Prevent Snowmobile Accidents This Winter

Posted on 18 November, 2020

Riding a snowmobile can—and should—be fun for the entire family. But even though it’s a great way to get out in the snow and explore, it can also be dangerous. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, snowmobile accidents cause about 200 deaths and 14,000 injuries per year in total. Most snowmobile accidents involve fixed or moving objects, including fence posts, cars, trees, barbed wire, and other snowmobiles. Deaths have resulted from riding on thin ice, freezing when marooned after a vehicle breakdown, or even being maimed by wire or tree limbs.

While this may make riding snowmobiles sound scary, there are ways to prevent these snowmobile accidents, injuries and deaths through awareness.

How to Prevent Snowmobile Accidents

The best way to prevent snowmobile accidents is to learn how to handle one. There are snowmobile safety courses that new riders can take to get familiar with how they feel and what to look out for when riding.

But even without safety courses, new riders and even seasoned riders can heed essential driving tips to reduce the potential for accidents.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Drivers need to check out the local forecast for however long you plan on being out on the vehicle. This can help you prepare for your ride, such as what to take with you, what to wear, and what time you should head back in.
Slow Down at Night: Just like driving on the highway, it’s critical to keep a sharp eye when driving your snowmobile at night. This is especially true around mountains and bodies of water because of potentially life-threatening items like barbed wire or fence posts popping up.
Don’t Drink and Drive: Sober driving isn’t just for regular daily commutes. Driving under the influence while on a snowmobile poses the same risks as driving on surface streets. What’s more, snowmobile drivers shouldn’t drink alcohol with the hopes that it will warm them out on their ride. Alcohol only increases the risk of hypothermia and slows down their reaction time.
Don’t Ride Solo: Snowmobiling is more fun with other people in general, but it can also prove to be a lifesaver. If an accident occurs, someone else is there to help. If you decide to go off by yourself, be sure to let someone know where you will be and around what time. If something does happen, friends and family will be able to find you more easily.
Ride with Protection: Riders need to pack essentials when they go out on a snowmobile, including food, water, extra layers, and insurance. CT Snowmobile Insurance helps keep drivers and their vehicles safe in the event of an accident. CT Snowmobile Insurance provides comprehensive protection if an accident should occur, including paying for damage to the vehicle, damage to others and property, and medical bills.
Keep Your Snowmobile Maintained: Make sure to perform a thorough check of the snowmobile every time it is taken for a ride. From lights to gears, everything must be in proper working condition to reduce the risk of breaking down and leaving you stranded.

About Byrnes Agency

At Byrnes Agency, we offer insurance solutions that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for personal policies or commercial coverage, we have the right coverage for you. To learn more about our products, contact us today at one of our two locations.

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