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Rev Up Safety, Not Speed on Your Snowmobile Adventure

By December 18, 2022December 29th, 2023No Comments

Rev Up Safety, Not Speed on Your Snowmobile Adventure

“Dashing through the snow, on a 100 horsepower sleigh. Over the handles we go, screaming all the 
way (to the hospital).”

Yes, we know that’s not exactly how the song goes. But if winter snow and cold, clear days make you itch to go snowmobiling, your Trusted Choice® independent agent hopes you’ll remember this: Safe 
operating habits can make the difference between a joy-filled ride and a tragic accident.

So whether your plans are a leisurely ride on favorite trails or a power run through more rugged terrain, here are a few snowmobile safety tips from the experienced and snow-loving folks at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources:

•  Before riding, attend a snowmobile safety training course (which may be required in some areas). 
Learn proper vehicle operation, safety rules, and applicable laws, regulations, and procedures.
•  Alcohol and snowball safety don’t mix. Before and during your ride, let “Zero Alcohol” be the 
motto for you and your fellow riders.
•  Avoid getting caught in bad weather; always check the forecast and trail conditions prior to 
setting out.
•  Slow and steady is better than fast and reckless. Lower speeds (less than 40 MPH) are especially 
critical at night.
•  Keep to trails. If going onto private land, never trespass. Ride on private property only with 
the land owner’s permission.
•  Stay to the right on all two-lane trails.
•  Obey all traffic signs.
•  Use extra caution when crossing roads.
•  Riding alone is dangerous in case of accident or disablement. Always invite a friend or friends 
to ride along on their own snowmobiles.
•  If possible, do not ride on frozen lakes or rivers. If you do, wear a life jacket and stay on 
marked trails.

And don’t forget snowmobile insurance. Snowmobiles vary greatly, and one-size snowmobile insurance does not fit all. Models range from entry-level riders to touring, mountain-ready and utility models. There are crossover (or hybrid) snowmobiles and those built for full-on performance, with a range of horsepower from 50 to 177. The purchase price of snowmobiles can be as low as $2,000 to more than $15,000. That’s why talking with your Trusted Choice® independent agent should be at the top of your snowmobile planning list.

First, your agent will help you review your unique combination of equipment, usage, and riding 
experience. Then, representing many fine companies, he or she can seek out multiple solutions for 
your coverage needs, along with recommended options and potential premiums. Then you both can 
determine the best protection for you at a competitive price.

Safe usage plus proper protection—let the snowmobiling begin!

Sobering Snowmobile Statistics

While more than 2 million people of all ages enjoy snowmobiling in North America, tragically far 
too many planned recreational outings end in injury or death, according to the National Institutes 
of Health (NIH). Snowmobiles are not simple snow scooters: They can weigh in excess of 600 pounds and can be capable of speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour.

Here are a few pertinent snowmobile findings from the NIH study:

•  Average annual fatalities: 200
•  Average annual injuries: 14,000
•  Most common injury: extremity fracture
•  Most frequent cause of death: head injury
•  Top causes of accidents: alcohol, driver inexperience, and poor judgment.

Sources: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiling/safety.html
http://www.snowmobile.com/products/engine-power-parity-in-2014-1701.html 
http://www.gosnowmobiling.org/beginners-snowmobiling-tips.html
 

Held Insurance Agency is a Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agency. Located in Mount Prospect, IL, and services all of Illinois and Wisconsin. We can help you evaluate what policy fits your needs. Contact us to learn more or request a quote.

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