 
by: John Maxim
There are approximately
13,000 reported injuries due to snowmobile accidents in the United
States each year. Additionally, there are over 100 deaths due to
snowmobile crashes each year. Some deaths are the result of the operator
being pinned under the vehicle, and over two-fifths of reported deaths are
the result of collisions with trees, other vehicles, bridges, and wires.
There are also deaths reported that are caused by the vehicle entering water
or falling through ice. Here are some tips that will help ensure your safety
while operating a snowmobile:
Never ride a snowmobile alone or across unfamiliar territory. Having a
partner will provide an extra measure of safety in the event of a breakdown
or accident.
Ride only on established trails and clearly marked areas. Avoid water and
frozen lakes. It is impossible to judge the thickness or depth of ice.
Watch the trail in front of you very closely. There could be hidden rocks,
barbed wire, or other obstacles in your path. You should avoid operating a
snowmobile in bad weather. Check for warnings regarding snowstorms and rain
before starting.
Always slow down at the top of a hill or snow bank. There could be an
unexpected hazard on the other side. Also, do not attempt to jump or hurdle
snow banks. You will only have control of your snowmobile when the skis are
firmly on the ground.
Take the time to learn the snowmobile laws and regulations for the area you
are in. Each state has its own requirements and rules in regard to
snowmobiles. Use common sense when approaching roads or railroad tracks.
Make sure you signal each turn you make and watch for other vehicles.
Control your speed according the conditions in which you are riding.
Use extra caution if you are operating a snowmobile at night. Unseen
obstacles can be potentially fatal. Drive only as fast as your headlights
will allow you to see safely. Never attempt to navigate new trails at night.
Do not operate a snowmobile while drinking. Numerous accidents occur each
year to due driving a snowmobile after consuming alcohol. Make sure the
vehicle you are driving has been properly maintained and is in good
operating condition. Snowmobiling can be exciting and very safe if you
observe the proper precautions and use common sense while riding.
Michigan Snowmobile Fatalities
- 2009 ~ 2010 Michigan Snowmobile Fatalities
Adobe PDF file listing "up to date" Michigan snowmobile season fatalities from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
- 2008 ~ 2009 Michigan Snowmobile Fatalities
Adobe PDF file listing 2008 - 2009 Michigan snowmobile season fatalities from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
- 2007 ~ 2008 Michigan Snowmobile Fatalities
Adobe PDF file listing 2007 ~ 2008 Michigan snowmobile season fatalities from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
- 2006 ~ 2007 Michigan Snowmobile Fatalities
Adobe PDF file listing 2006 - 2007 Michigan snowmobile season fatalities from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
- 2005 ~ 2006 Michigan Snowmobile Fatalities
Adobe PDF file listing 2005 - 2006 Michigan snowmobile season fatalities from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Snowmobile Safety Resources
- Snowmobile Safety
The risks of snowmobiling can be minimized by using good equipment and common sense. Valuable snowmobile trail safety links, articles and more.
- Drunk Driving (DUI) Driving Under the Influence
Operating a motor vehicle, or for that matter even a bicycle or other human-powered vehicle, after consuming alcohol or other drugs so that mental and motor skills are impaired is recognized as an act of driving under the influence (DUI) or drunk driving.
- Why are there so many snowmobile related fatalities
Besides the most common, there are other reasons that contribute to winter snowmobile fatalities.
- National snowmobile season crash and accidents news articles
Updated National snowmobile news- articles, news stories, fatalities and much more. Updated daily!
- Family Law and Drunk Driving Facts
Here are some interesting drunk driving facts that aren’t commonly discussed but important to those who may be potentially facing a DUI or drunk driving related offense.
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Wisconsin Snowmobile Safety Awareness Week
Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle has declared that January 9th thru the 15th is the official “Snowmobile Safety Awareness Week.”
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Wisconsin Drunk Driving News
Who's who, drunk driving in the news? Keep updated with our Wisconsin Drunk Driving News and Information Updates.
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Munising, Michigan Website
Munising Michigan travel & recreation website resource.
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Munising, Michigan Tourist Attractions
Munising & Alger County Tourist Vacation Attractions- Outdoor recreation
leisure, exploration, fun and excitement.
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Munising, Michigan Travel and Tourism Directory
Munising, Michigan is a Midwest Vacation Travel of Treasures. Little known,
the quiet little city of Munising in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is one of
the most beautiful cities in the Mid West.
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Michigan Upper Peninsula
The Michigan Upper Peninsula is all about the great out of doors... the
fresh air, the Great Lakes, the alluring pace of living, outdoor recreation
and scenic wilderness beauty throughout four unique fun-filled seasons.
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Gwinn Michigan Web Site
Gwinn, Michigan Upper Peninsula Tourist Information Web Site
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AuTrain, Michigan Website
Au Train Michigan Recreation Area website
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