Avoid Snowmobiling Accidents during Ontario Winters

Living in a rural northern area in winter can mean facing some harsh winters and chilly nights. For outdoor enthusiasts however, blankets of fresh snow mean the opening of snowmobile season and an opportunity to enjoy beautiful Ontario trails year round.

Snowmobiling in Ontario

According to Transport Canada, there are over 700,000 registered snowmobiles in Canada and over 161,000 km of snowmobile trails. Snowmobiling can be a great source of fun for families and individuals and a great way to get outside during the winter months.  However, before heading out, it is important to familiarize yourself with some basic safety precautions and to use common sense to avoid unnecessary collisions and injuries.

Snowmobiling Safety Tips

The Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) reports that it believes that there is a link between raising safety awareness among snowmobilers and decreased fatalities.
Following important safety precautions will help to avoid snowmobiling accidents and associated injuries, which may include broken bones, neck injuries, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and/or psychological /emotional injuries.

Follow these safety tips as outlined by Transport Canada:

• Inform others of your destination and arrival time
• Inspect your snowmobile for mechanical integrity
• Wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions to prevent yourself from getting hypothermia
• When riding, stay on the right side of the trail
• Stay within your riding capabilities
• At night, reduce your speed – your headlight limits how far you can see
• When riding over lakes and rivers be aware of ice conditions; always check with local authorities regarding conditions.  If riding over water, always wear flotation clothing
• Never operate a snowmobile if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Snowmobilers are encouraged to belong to a recognized Snowmobile Club

Following these tips will help to minimize the chances of an accident.  However, if you or anyone you know has been involved in a snowmobiling accident, our team of experienced Ontario personal injury lawyers can help. Contact us online for a free legal consultation with an Ontario Injury Lawyer or phone 1-800-563-6348 to speak directly with one of our lawyers.