Posted on Feb 03, 2016

Here are 5 lesser-know tips for safe snowmobiling!

Despite the start of a late winter, snowmobile season continues to clip along. At Hupy and Abraham, S.C., we always encourage having fun while staying safe. Being informed is another important part of that process.

Snowmobile accidents contribute to 14,000 injuries and roughly 200 deaths per year. The majority of those injuries are a result of collisions with fixed objects and rider error due to alcohol impairment. Check out the following safety tips to keep skills sharp and riding safe while having fun this winter season.

Five Uncommon Safety Tips for Snowmobile Riders

1. Never Ride Faster Than Your Lights Can See

The allure of speed is addicting, especially at night and on open straights. However, never ride faster than your lights can see ahead of you. When you go faster than your lights can reach ahead of you dangers will surface more quickly than you can react, which could be catastrophic.

2. Lakes and Logs

Riding on iced bodies of water is a blast. Every rider should know to watch for wet spots and buckles in the ice. However, lesser known, but very serious dangers are logs, branches and sticks covered by snow protruding from the ice. If you hit one of these at a high speed, it could cause serious injury or worse. Be sure to travel at reasonable speeds or in previously established tracks.

3. Roads and Bridges

Aim where you want to go before entering any nonsnow terrain. Paved roads and metal or wooden bridges will have almost no traction after you enter them (occasionally bridges will have rubber mats in line with tracks to remedy this). Be sure you are lined up with where you want to end up before proceeding!

4. Blind Corners

Generally, watching your speed at trail corners is a good idea. In consideration of your fellow riders, always go slower in turns, especially in tight spots and blind corners. Ice and subsequent loss of traction can be an unexpected surprise that causes a collision.

5. Use Basic Trail Code

When heading out into an area, try to learn a bit about it first, and be respectful of private land. Grab a map to carry, fuel up, and remember to signal how many riders are behind you when passing another group or rider (zero being a fist).

At Hupy and Abraham S.C. we’re riders ourselves, we understand the passion for motor sports, and we continuously try to spread safety awareness and information on our website. While we hope you never get into a situation where you need legal representation, we’re proud to offer over 40 years of experience and an understanding team that will support you if you do.