1. Slow Down: Speed is a contributing factor in nearly all fatal snowmobile accidents. Moderate speed is urged to allow for adequate reaction time in any situation.

2. Always Carry a First Aid Kit: The kit should include a flashlight, knife, compass, map and waterproof matches. And a cell phone (turned on for emergencies-  but never in use while driving.

3. Dress Appropriately: Always wear a helmet! Also wear goggles or some form of a face shield to prevent eye injuries from twigs or flying debris. Wear layers, water proof material, and make sure there are no loose strings or materials to catch on things you drive by.

4. Avoid Water and Ice: The thickness of ice is always tricky to judge. Wisconsin weather changes rapidly and water movement tends to be unpredictable by the eye alone. Snow cover can also trick people into thinking the ice is solid and it also can prevent the ice from solidly forming.

5. Stay On Marked Trails: Always be on the alert for fences, tree stumps, and other ground impediments. If there is not a marked trail, stay on the right shoulder of the road.

6. Travel In Pairs: Most snow mobile accidents result in personal injury. The most dangerous situation occurs when a person is injured alone. If you have to travel alone, please tell someone your destination, planned route, and approximate time that you will be returning.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a snowmobile accident and needs advise, contact an experienced Wisconsin Snowmobile Personal Injury Attorney to help you understand your rights.

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According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the vast majority of boating accidents and fatalities on Wisconsin waters every year involve operators who have never taken a boating safety course. In 2009 none of the 16 people killed in boating accidents in Wisconsin had taken a course; in 2008, 19 of the 20 people killed had not taken a course.

In addition to live, in-person boating safety classes, the Department of Natural Resources will also be hosting 2 on-line courses. More information about upcoming boating safety classes can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.

In the meantime, as a quick safety tip, if you’re going out on the water in a boat, the one thing you can do to assure you return home safely is to wear a life jacket. In 2008,  16 of 20 people killed in boating accidents were not wearing life jackets.

Also, save your drinking until you’re off the water. Wisconsin law prohibits anyone from operating a motorboat or manipulating water skis or similar devices while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anyone who operates or attempts to operate a vessel
is deemed to have given consent to an alcohol and/or rug test. It is illegal for a person to operate a motorboat or use water skis, a surfboard, or other device if he or she has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or greater. Anyone under 21 years of age is required to maintain absolute sobriety while operating a boat. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times.

For more information on Drunk Driving in Wisconsin

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