State officials remind snowmobilers to ride safely
At the start of snowmobiling season, New York state urges riders to keep safety in mind, both when operating and during any breaks with fellow riders.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, snowmobile safety courses continue to be offered. Successful completion of this course, results in the issuance of a NYS Snowmobile Safety Certificate.
This certificate is required for youth between ages 10 and 18 to operate a snowmobile, but all riders can benefit from taking a course that provides fundamental information that all should possess to ensure the safety of both rider and other trail users.
State Park Police, State Troopers, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers and local enforcement agencies enforce state laws on snowmobile trails, including instances of unsafe or reckless operation, speed limits including the state’s max
imum speed of 55 MPH, and operating while intoxicated.
Those rules apply on all local and club trails, as well as the 10,500-mile Statewide Trail System, which traverses 45 counties and includes lands under the jurisdiction of state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), NewYork State Canal Corporation, local governments, and many private landowners.
State Parks is anticipating an increase in snowmobile trail use this season. Outdoor recreational equipment sales have increased during the pandemic, snowmobile registrations in New York are running ahead of last year’s figures and the current closure of the U.S.- Canadian border will prevent New Yorkers from going to that country for snowmobiling.
“We want to remind snowmobilers, especially those that may be new to the sport, of safe operating practices, and that reckless operation, speeding and operating while impaired or intoxicated present significant and serious risks to all trail users, and rules will be strictly enforced by law enforcement” State Park Police Chief Mark Van Wie stated.
“While outside riding is a safe activity during this pandemic, COVID-19 safety protocols should be followed at trailheads and during breaks This would include maintaining a safe social distance of at least six feet and the wearing of face masks. Also, snowmobilers should not be sharing gear or other items,” Van Wie noted.
“We encourage snowmobile enthusiasts to take advantage of the beautiful trails in our great state, but we want to make certain the first priority is safety. Remember, there is no excuse for operating any motorized vehicle or device while impaired, whether it be a vehicle, snowmobile, boat or ATV. By making responsible and safe choices, New Yorkers can do their part to keep our trails safe and enjoyable for all,” State Police Acting Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen said.
“Year after year, snowmobiling continues to be one of New York state’s most popular winter activities and we encourage outdoor enthusiasts to check out the abundant trails available close to home. In addition to the usual precautions for riding safely and following the rules, I join State Parks in reminding all people to wear masks, socially distance, and observe the other important guidelines to stop the spread of COVID-19,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos added.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) reminds New Yorkers to register their snowmobiles before hitting the trails. Snowmobile registrations must be renewed annually and may be renewed online on the DMV website.
“This is perfect weather to enjoy snowmobiling in New York and I urge riders to ride responsibly,” DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder commented.
“We remind New Yorkers that they are legally required to wear a helmet and to never operate a snowmobile while impaired. Be safe and enjoy the ride,” Schroeder added.