Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity enjoyed by many people every year. Although snowmobiles are a source of fun, they can also result in injuries when involved in accidents, due to their size and speed.
There are certain causes of crashes that are more common than others. There are injuries that occur more than others as well.
Accident stats
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources shows some of the factors involved in snowmobile accidents. Considering the number of accidents in a year, 74% involve some type of injury, 21% involve property damage and 5% are fatal. The majority of crashes occur on government-marked trails, with the road coming in second.
Males are in accidents more than females, and most injuries occur to the snowmobile operator. The three main types of accidents are striking a fixed object, colliding with another snowmobile or car and losing control. Most accidents occur over the weekend, and most do not involve alcohol.
Common causes of accidents
There are various factors that contribute to snowmobile crashes. The three most common are:
- Inexperience
- Unsafe speed
- Inattention
Common types of injuries
The National Library of Medicine discusses a study that analyzed common injuries that occur from snowmobile accidents. Injuries of the extremities, specifically broken bones, are the most common. Head injuries are also common. The third most common injury is sustained vertebral column fractures.
Around 88% of injured individuals require hospitalization, and 54% require surgery. Depending on the type, location and severity of the injury, some patients may also need rehabilitation services after their release from the hospital.
