By Dave Lucas
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Albany, NY – With the Winter Sports Season at its zenith this time of year, New York State is marking International Snowmobile Safety Week. Capital District Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
Snowmobiling is a family-friendly activity. But it can spell trouble when drivers get careless. Statewide, police agencies and snowmobile clubs are asking people to obey the rules governing snowmobiles and not to drive under the influence. Last winter in New York, there were 14 fatalities related to snowmobiles.
Snowmobiling while intoxicated falls under the same legal measure as any other DWI -- a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or more. State Parks officials noted that while the vast majority of operators of nearly 140,000 registered snowmobiles in New York practice safe riding, unsafe speed is the primary cause of accidents in 86 percent of cases during 2009, with alcohol being a contributing factor in 50 percent. The maximum speed limit for snowmobiling is 55 miles per hour, unless otherwise posted.
Officals recommend snowmobilers always wear a helmet and appropriate clothing; be properly registered and insured; tell families where they're sledding and when they'll return; have a survival pack or emergency supplies handy, and check weather conditions before setting out.
Three people died in Vermont over the weekend when snowmobiles they were aboard fell through the ice on a lake. First Sergeant Gennaro Appell with the Albany County Sheriff's Office advises snomobilers avoid ponds and lakes whenever possible.
New York law requires youngsters 10 to 18 years old to earn a safety certificate before they can legally operate a snowmobile. Information about New York State snowmobile safety courses is available on the net or by calling 518.474.0446.