In the heart of winter, riding snowmobiles is one of the most popular pastimes in Michigan. It does come with significant dangers, though, as do many recreational activities.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, there were 24 fatal accidents last winter. The stats for this winter are not yet completed, but the 2015-2016 stats give you some idea of the danger.
The reports show that those of all ages have to contend with this risk. In Gogebic County, a 61-year-old man was killed. In Kalkaska, a 17-year-old boy passed away. In Chippewa County, a 23-year-old woman was the victim, while a 46-year-old woman died in Keweenaw County.
The stats did show that men were in far more danger than women, when looking at overall deaths. Just four of the 24 who were killed were women.
The accidents reports also demonstrate how accidents can happen in many different ways. One of the women struck a tree and was killed, while another was hit by a snowmobile. One of the men was thrown from his snowmobile and then hit by a truck. Another man hit a low branch over the trail, lost control and hit a tree. Still another was killed when the snowmobile rolled, and the report said the man had just one arm and was using a modified snowmobile as a result.
Have you been hurt in a snowmobile accident this winter, or have you lost a loved one in a tragic wreck? If so, you should know that you may have a right to financial compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages and more.
Source: Michigan.gov, “Michigan Snowmobile Fatality Summary,” accessed Feb. 07, 2017
