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What is a Snow Mobile Accident?

Date Posted:

January 29, 2025

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    Snowmobiling is a beloved activity for many many people who live in Winter climes. But there is no denying the fact that it is risky. The consequences can be severe and life-changing, or even life-taking. Whether due to rider error, or the negligence of others, many people are injured or killed in snowmobile accidents every winter. 

    In fact, from 2013 to 2019, on average, across all Canadian provinces and territories, 73 people died from snowmobile accidents every year. From 2009 to 2019, the Ontario Provincial Police investigated 175 snowmobile fatalities throughout the province, not to mention many more non-fatal accidents. Although the latest statistics have yet to be compiled, the historical data speaks volumes. 

    If you or someone you love has been injured in serious snowmobile accidents, whether as a rider or as an innocent bystander, we want you to understand your legal options. Who’s responsible? How do you cover the mounting medical bills? Where do you even start? In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about snowmobile accidents, so you can understand your potential legal recourse, and how McNally Gervan can help.

     

    Common Causes of Snowmobile Accidents 

    1. Just like car accidents, snowmobile accidents happen for all sorts of reasons, such as:
    2. Rider Error: Inexperience, speeding, or risk taking are commonly cited causes.
    3. Weather Conditions: Blowing snow, thin ice on bodies of water, and limited visibility increase the risks.
    4. Negligence of Others: Some accidents are caused by other snowmobile drivers who may be inexperienced,  inattentive or impaired. . When snowmobilers cross roadways, motorists are often caught by surprise by other vehicles 
    5. Equipment Malfunction: Faulty brakes or other mechanical issues.

     

    Snowmobile Injuries

    Anyone riding motorized snow vehicles is at much greater risk of injury than the drivers of cars and trucks because, just as with motorcycle or all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents, they don’t have nearly the same level of physical protection. Without safety features, such as seatbelts, airbags, a physical enclosure, snowmobile accident victims often suffer serious injuries:

    • Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) : Helmets notwithstanding, snowmobile accidents often result in TBIs. 
    • Spinal Cord Injuries: Paralysis and other spinal injuries can occur in high-impact crashes.
    • Fractures and Organ Damage: Broken bones and internal injuries are common.
    • Death: Tragically, some accidents result in fatalities.

     

    Snowmobile Accident Liability – Who’s Responsible for a Snowmobile Accident?

    Figuring out who’s at fault after a snowmobile crash depends on the circumstances. In some cases, more than one party may share the blame. 

     

    Statutory Obligations

    In Ontario, snowmobilers are subject to the Ontario Motorized Snow Vehicles Act, which mandates insurance, registration, and proper training. Failure to adhere to these rules can impact liability in a personal injury case.

     

    Potentially Liable Parties

    • The Driver: If the person operating the snowmobile was reckless—speeding, driving under the influence, or ignoring safety guidelines—they could be held responsible.
    • The Snowmobile Owner: Owners who fail to maintain their vehicles properly may share liability for any resulting accidents.
    • Landowners: Trails that are unsafe or poorly marked could lead to road design or maintenance claims against the property owner.
    • Manufacturers: If a defect in the snowmobile caused the crash, the manufacturer might be liable under product liability laws.

    Each case is unique, and determining fault often requires a thorough investigation.

     

    Damages in Snowmobile Accidents

    If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you might be entitled to compensation for:

    • Economic Losses: These include medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
    • Non-Economic Damages: Pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life are also compensable.

     

    What to Do After a Snowmobile Accident

    If you’ve been injured in a snowmobiling accident, the steps you take immediately afterward can impact your ability to claim compensation. To protect your rights and interests, follow these steps:

    Seek Immediate Medical Attention

    Your health and safety come first. Seek medical attention right away. In many cases, people are in shock from the accident and their injuries might not present immediate symptoms.

     

    Report the Accident

    In Ontario, snowmobile collisions must often be reported to the police, especially if injuries or significant property damage occurred. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.

     

    Gather Evidence

    Document the accident scene if possible:

    • Take photos of the collision, your injuries, and the surrounding area.
    • Collect contact information from witnesses.
    • Note weather conditions, trail markers, and any obstacles that contributed to the crash.

     

    Notify Your Insurance Provider

    File a report with your insurance company as soon as possible. Keep detailed records of all communications and documents you submit.

     

    How McNally Gervan Can Help

    At McNally Gervan LLP, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll snowmobile accidents take on victims and their families. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to:

    • Provide Clear Legal Guidance: We’ll explain your legal options in plain language, so you can make informed decisions.
    • Handle Complex Claims: Whether you’re pursuing accident benefits, a tort claim, or both, we’ll handle the paperwork, evidence gathering, and negotiations with insurers.
    • Seek Maximum Compensation: From medical expenses to lost wages and pain and suffering, we’ll fight for the compensation you deserve.
    • Offer a Free Consultation: There’s no cost to discuss your case with us, and no fees unless we win.

    Your recovery is our priority. Let us handle the legal challenges while you focus on healing.

     

    Contact McNally Gervan Today

    Snowmobile accidents are frightening, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. McNally Gervan LLP is here to guide you through every step of the process—from filing claims to holding negligent parties accountable.

    Call us today to schedule your free consultation. Let’s talk about your options, your rights, and how we can help you move forward. Together, we’ll work to turn a difficult situation into a path toward recovery and justice.

    Visit our snowmobile accident page for more information or contact us today. Let us be your trusted advocate in this challenging time.

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