As the winter coats the state of Minnesota in a blanket of fluffy, white snow, snowmobiles can be heard buzzing across fields, through woods and over frozen lakes. In many cases, these popular recreational vehicles are more than just an exciting way to take a ride through the snow and ice, they are a more convenient way to get around the rural areas of Minnesota.
Despite the popularity and regular use of snowmobiles in the state, there are still several risks associated with operating the heavy machines. Snowmobile accidents are on the rise, which means that personal injury from these vehicles as well as fatalities are increasing. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the case and the evidence that can be collected, you may have a strong case for recovering financial damages after a snowmobile accident. It’s critical that you work with a personal injury attorney in Minnesota who is familiar with snowmobile accidents as well as personal injury laws in the state.
As snowmobiles get faster, their popularity is increasing
Snow mobile accidents are on the rise not only in Minnesota but also throughout the entire country. One of the largest contributing factors to these accidents is speed. Snowmobile operators who drive too fast significantly increase their risk of an accident. Drivers are more likely to operate the sleds at high rates of speed if they are under the influence of alcohol. (In addition to increasing the risk of accident that results in injury or death, alcohol also can increase the health risks of operating a snowmobile. Alcohol leaves a person with a higher chance of developing hypothermia.)
It is not recommended that children under the age of 16 operate a snowmobile. Any child that is riding on a snowmobile should wear a helmet and take all proper safety precautions.
While there are risks associated with snowmobile use, including injury or death, there are ways to improve your safety while enjoying a winter ride. Proper maintenance is very important, ensuring that your sled is in good working condition. You should take it in for a check-up and tune-up prior to the beginning of the winter season, and address any issues with the vehicle prior to using it.
Always follow the rules of the road, and maintain a safe speed when you are driving a snowmobile. Travel with a partner so there is someone to help in the event of an accident or injury. Keep a first aid kit with you at all times on your snowmobile, in case you stranded without a working vehicle in the harsh winter conditions.
If injured in central or northern Minnesota – attorney Stephen Gabrielson
If you are involved in a snowmobile accident, the first thing you need to do is seek medical care for you and anyone else injured at the scene. After you have been treated, your next call should be to a personal injury attorney in Minnesota who understands snowmobile laws and personal injury laws in the state. In Minnesota, you may be eligible for compensation for damages associated with a snowmobile accident in the event of neglect by another snowmobile driver or in the event that the vehicle itself was not manufactured properly.
When you are working with a qualified attorney, you will have a legal partner who will advocate for you and collect the evidence necessary to prove that you require compensation in the aftermath of a snowmobile accident and injury. To find out more information about snowmobile laws in Minnesota and to learn if you have a legal case after your snowmobile accident, call us today.
