Warming weather and one of the snowiest Decembers in state history have snowmobile enthusiasts heading toward the trails.

Thursday, January 04, 2001

Warming weather and one of the snowiest Decembers in state history have snowmobile enthusiasts heading toward the trails. But one of Minnesota’s most popular winter sports can be dangerous, too, as demonstrated by a recent fatal accident. Experts offers tips on how to enjoy the sport and stay safe this winter.

Scott Trimble of Trimble Cycle Center in Austin said that his company has sold approximately 75 snowmobiles this year, which, despite the added snowfall, is in alignment with sales in past years. What seems to be on the rise, however, is the usage, not the purchasing of new snowmobiles.

With the added usage comes a greater chance for mishaps. "With more snow on the ground, you’re going to see more accidents," said Trimble.

Jim Winters, certified safety instructor for the Department of Natural Resources, said that "common sense plays into a big part" of safe snowmobile operation. Mower County Sheriff Barry Simonson agreed, saying that riders should "use common sense and be sure that they are properly licensed."

All riders born after Dec. 31, 1979, must have a snowmobile safety certificate to operate their vehicle. Residents should contact the DNR Snowmobile Safety Training Program Headquarters at (800)366-8917 if they are interested in attending a safety course.

Only riders 18 and older can register a snowmobile. Riders age 13 and younger may drive a snowmobile as long as they are on the same vehicle with a parent or guardian or are being towed by the vehicle of a parent or guardian. Basically, the adult should be able to direct the child’s operation of the vehicle.

Some other tips for safe riding are:

– Don’t override your ability and choose a machine that is in line with your skills.

 

Trimble said that entry-level riders usually look for a smaller and lighter vehicle, while experienced riders desire better handling and a smoother ride. "Very, very few come in looking for speed," he said.

– Always ride with a buddy.

– Tell someone where you’re going and what time you expect to return.

– Do not use alcohol or drugs if you will be operating a snowmobile.

The DNR reports that "during the past several winters, Minnesota has had an average of 23 fatal snowmobile accidents per year." The major contributors to these fatalities have been alcohol and excessive speed.

If you are found driving your snowmobile while intoxicated, you could pay a $700 fine, spend time in jail and/or lose your snowmobile operating privileges for one year.

– Slow down at night, because it is easy to outdrive your headlights.

The DNR suggests that you lower your speed to 40 miles per hour at night.

– Dress warm and always wear a helmet.

– Take a cellphone with you, if possible, in case of an emergency

– Ride on trails or places where you already know the terrain and the hazards you may encounter.

– Avoid thin or snow-covered ice.

Snowmobile drivers are not allowed on city streets from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.

"Riders are only allowed to drive their vehicles from their residence to the nearest city limits," said Police Chief Paul Philipp.

Travel outside of the city limits is restricted to 50 miles per hour. Philipp said that drivers should obey all traffic rules and stay to the right of the paved road when leaving town.

Philipp also said that the number one complaint against snowmobile drivers is driving onto private property.

In a Tuesday night meeting, city council member-at-large Dick Lang said that snowmobilers should follow the existing laws involving the operation of their vehicles, because "we certainly don’t want to have to make new laws."

Residents can pick up brochures listing safety procedures and laws at snowmobile dealer locations and from the DNR.