Living in a rural northern area in winter can mean facing some harsh winters and chilly nights. Fortunately for some, blankets of fresh snow mean the start of snowmobile season and an opportunity to enjoy beautiful Ontario trails year-round.
Snowmobiling in Ontario
Snowmobiling can be a great source of enjoyment for families and individuals and a great way to get outside during the long winter months. According to Transport Canada, there are more than 700,000 registered snowmobiles and more than 160,000 km of snowmobile trails in Canada. In addition, there are snowmobiling clubs throughout Ontario that educate and inform riders to ensure they have a safe and fun trip!
Snowmobiling Safety Tips
Before heading out, it is important to familiarize yourself with the following safety precautions and driving requirements to avoid injuries:
- Inform others of your destination and arrival time
- Wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions to prevent yourself from getting hypothermia
- Inspect your snowmobile for mechanical integrity
- Contact the local snowmobile club to check riding conditions (e.g., weather, trail and ice)
- Stay within your riding capabilities and never travel alone
- Stay on the right-hand side of the trail, even when parked
- Take extra care when encountering corners, hills and crossings
- When riding over lakes and rivers, be aware of ice conditions and wear flotation clothing
- At night, reduce your speed – your headlight limits how far you can see
- Never operate a snowmobile if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs
Planning ahead, acting sensible and following 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. 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.
