Snowmobile Accident Lawyer in New York City

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    What is a Snowmobile?

    A Snowmobile, sometimes referred to as a snow machine or a snow ski sled, is a winter travel vehicle similar to a Jet Ski, Motorcycle, or ATV. Snowmobiles, like jet skis, motorcycles, and ATVs, are small, fast, and easily maneuvered. A snowmobile typically has one to four seats, and it is designed to operate on both snow and thick ice. Snowmobiles typically have two skis in the front of the vehicle and a continuous track system in the rear that is used for propulsion. This enables snowmobiles to move on snow paths, trails, and frozen lakes.

    The snowmobile was originally designed to be used as a commercial snow utility vehicle, but it has recently evolved into one of the most popular recreational winter activities in the United States. This is evidenced by its annual market size of $30 billion in North America.

    Professional riders are sponsored by many Fortune 500 companies such as Monster and RedBull and they compete semi-annually in the Summer and Winter X-Games. Their popularity has greatly contributed to the strong surge in snowmobile purchases over the past few years.

    How Common Are Snowmobile Accidents?

    As the popularity of snowmobiling has exploded in the United States the dangers have dramatically increased as well. Over the past 10 years, there have been on average 13,000 snowmobile accidents per year. To some, this may sound lower than expected, but when considering the typical snowmobile season is only three months long and that there are less than 1.5 million registered snowmobilers in the United States, the amount of accidents per year is startling. Additionally, there are approximately 110 deaths involving snowmobile operations each year which further underscores their hazards.

    If you or someone you know has been involved in a snowmobile accident contact a New York Snowmobile Accident Lawyer at Finz & Finz, P.C., today by calling (855) TOP-FIRM. Finz & Finz, P.C., will be able to assist you with all of your questions and concerns.

    What Would Cause a Snowmobile Accident?

    Snowmobiles frequently collide with trees, rocks, and other fixed objects. Accidents involving other snowmobiles are frequent as well. These types of snowmobile accidents can be caused by a variety of situations; however, some causes are more common than others. Some of these common causes are as follows:

    • Excessive speed
    • Driver intoxication
    • Driving on thin ice
    • Lack of operator experience
    • Lack of operator training
    • Machine malfunction

    How to Prevent a Snowmobile Accident

    Snowmobiles can be a lot of fun if handled properly, but they can be just as dangerous if they are operated frivolously. Serious personal injury or death is a real possibility when operating a snowmobile. It is important to follow all signs, rules, and regulations prior to and during operation.

    The most essential snowmobile safety precautions are:

    • Routine maintenance performed on your snowmobile
    • Participate in a snowmobile training course
    • Stay on all marked trails
    • Avoid thin frozen bodies of water
    • Wear appropriate safety gear. This includes helmets, goggles, heavy clothing, and gloves
    • Bring water, a cell phone, and a safety kit in case of emergency
    • Avoid driving alone, and if you must drive alone then tell a family member where you will be going and what time you expect to arrive
    • Keep control of the machine and avoid traveling at unsafe speeds
    • Keep a close watch on your surroundings. Collisions with trees, rocks, or other fixed objects can be fatal
    • Avoid riding in inclement weather or when there is low visibility
    • Be aware of all avalanche dangers
    • Never use alcohol or drugs when operating a snowmobile

    If you or a friend have been involved in a snowmobile accident and have suffered a severe injury contact Finz & Finz, P.C., to speak with an experienced snowmobile accident attorney now. Simply fill out the Free Snowmobile Accident Case Evaluation form or call toll-free at (855) TOP-FIRM.