
Snowmobilers in New York Need to Know About This Lifesaving Resource
Growing up in the country, many family members, relatives, and friends had snowmobiles. There were some great trails to spend a day riding over the snow.
Over the past few winters, the weather has not been too kind to those who love to snowmobile. This year has been much better.
While this is a fun activity to be a part of, snowmobiles, like ATVs are serious machines and safety precautions are a top priority when embarking on that fun adventure.
Accidents DO Happen With Snowmobiles
According to the New York State of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, during the winter of 2023-2024, there were 35 reported incidents reported. That included 26 injuries and 8 fatalities in the Empire State. Those numbers are the lowest in over 6 years, so hopefully snowmobilers are being cautious.
The NYS Parks Department notes that most of the accidents last winter were due to collisions with objects like trees, embankments, signposts, bridges, and culverts. Other reasons were attributed to unsafe speed (top reason), failure to negotiate a turn, operator inexperience, and you guessed it - alcohol involvement.
Read More: How Thick Must Ice Be To Venture Out On A Frozen Body Of Water?
During the previous winter, 2022-2023, there were a total of 56 incidents, of which 13 resulted in fatalities, according to the NYS Parks Department.
Snowmobile Education In New York State
Did you know that the Empire State is a leading state when it comes to snowmobile education? That's true. The New York State Parks Department offers one operator training course for snowmobilers of all ages beginning at age 10.
The course, taught by experienced snowmobilers, provides fundamental information to ensure the safety of riders and other trail users. Those who complete the course successfully, are awarded a NYS Snowmobile Safety Certificate.
For more information on the course, visit the Upcoming Events page from the NYS Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation website.
The NYS Parks Department says that youth between the ages of 14 through 17 years old may operate a snowmobile, on lands upon which snowmobiling is allowed, without adult or other supervision if they have completed a snowmobile safety training course recognized by the State of New York.
Without completing the training course, they may operate a snowmobile if accompanied by (within 500 feet of) a person who is at least 18 years of age. Those between the age of 10 through 13 may operate a snowmobile, on lands upon which snowmobiling is allowed, if they have completed the course, and are accompanied by (within 500 feet of) a person who is at least 18 years of age.
So, Where Are Some Cool Trails In New York State?
Now, where are those trails in New York State to take your snowmobile? Take a look at this Facebook post from the New York State Snowmobile Association. Have fun snowmobiling in New York State!

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