Jan 30, 2014 in News Snowmobile Accident

Snowmobile Accident: Ontario has seen 5 snowmobile fatalities this season

[caption id="attachment_5807" align="alignleft" width="300"] (Photo credit: shalom777/SXC)[/caption] It's great to embrace the snow and cold by enjoying winter sports, but don't forget to stay safe while spending time outdoors. Snowmobiling is a fun, family outdoor activity and it's fun riding on snowy paths and up and down hills. Snowmobiles were initially created to help hunters and other workers travel across the snow, but since then it's become a recreational sport. Unfortunately, some snowmobile riders aren't careful. From January 18 to 26, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs ran Snowmobile Safety Week. While there are many locations for snowmobilers to ride, everyone needs to be aware of the sport's risks. In Ontario, there have been five fatal snowmobile collisions that took place on roads this season, according to the OPP. In all of these accidents, unfortunately speed was a factor. When riding a snowmobile, it's important to travel at a speed that the snowmobile rider is comfortable at, but also consider the weather and the condition of the ground they are travelling on. You may want to reschedule your plans or be extremely careful if there's heavy snowfall, high winds, when there are snow banks and when visibility is reduced or close to zero. Along with watching your riding speed, where you ride affects your safety. The OFSC maintains designated trails which are marked and regularly patrolled. Avoid riding on roads due to possible traffic and lakes due to the possibility of falling through. If you also don't ride in unfamiliar terrain or private property, you're less likely to run into trouble while you're out there. You can visit the OFSC website to check the status of the trails before you head out. Also, make sure you stay warm by eating before heading out and drinking lots of water. Wear the right gear by layering your clothing and wearing clothes that can help you release moisture and you are required to wear a helmet. There are also heated accessories you can use, such as an electric vest, gloves or boot inserts. Don't forget to bring along some snacks and water to have when you take a break from your ride. Also, tell someone before you go out and let them know of the trail you plan to use as well. For more snowmobile safety tips, visit the Ministry of Transportation website. Drivers near snowmobile trails should also be careful when driving during times of low visibility, but snowmobile drivers also need to abide by traffic laws, such as following speed limits and trail signs, using hand signals when turning and never driving impaired. A Bobcaygeon snowmobile driver was recently charged after he ran into a vehicle after failing to stop at an intersection. Luckily, the snowmobile driver was treated for minor injuries, while the vehicle's driver and passenger were unharmed. Accident benefits are available to anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident. The personal injury and accident lawyers at Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers have been dealing with all accident related issues throughout Ontario for over 50 years. We know how to get you the compensation that you deserve and get your life back in order after being in a car accident. Call us at 416-920-4242, set up a free consultation, and come speak with us.