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Snowmobile Safety Tips

The winter season is fast approaching and snowmobilers are getting ready to ride.  Although snowmobiling is a lot of fun, there are some risks involved.  Statistics show that 75% of snowmobiling fatalities occur off trails; 74% of snowmobiling injuries involve alcohol; 37% of snowmobiling injuries involve excessive speed, and most snowmobiling injuries and deaths occur among males, aged 20-34.  To avoid being another statistic, follow these safety rules.

•    Dress for safety and the weather.  Always wear a helmet with goggles or a face shield to prevent injuries from twigs and flying debris. Wear layers of water-repellent clothing and make sure you have no loose ends that might catch in the machine or tangle in equipment.
•    Never travel alone.  Having another person around in case of an accident is probably the greatest safety practice.  If you must travel alone, tell someone your destination, planned route, and when you will return.
•    Stay on marked trails or, where allowed, on the right shoulder of the road. Be alert for fences, tree stumps and stretched wire that may be concealed by snow.
•    Slow down.  Speed is a contributing factor in nearly all fatal snowmobiling accidents. Drive at a speed that will give you enough time to react should you need to change speed or direction quickly. Drive at moderate speeds, and drive defensively, especially after sunset.
•    Carry a first aid kit, as well as other emergency equipment, especially tools, flashlights, compass, waterproof matches, etc.
•    Don’t drink and ride.  Alcohol is involved in most snowmobiling fatalities.  Any amount of alcohol impairs your perception, slows your reaction time and limits your ability to control your snowmobile.  Alcohol increases your susceptibility to cold and hypothermia. This will decrease your chances of survival if you have to wait long for help to arrive.
•    Avoid traveling across lakes, streams and rivers if you aren't sure of the ice thickness or water currents. Rapidly changing weather and moving water in streams and lake inlets also affect the thickness and strength of ice on lakes and ponds. Snow cover can act as a blanket and prevent safe ice from forming.

Even though most of us try to do our best to stay safe when we’re out riding, accidents can still happen.  A great way to protect yourself, your family and your sled is with snowmobile insurance.  Snowmobile insurance coverage options include bodily injury and property damage liability, comprehensive & collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist, roadside assistance, and more.  Talk to an agent to find out what options best suit your needs.