Snowmobile season is upon us, which means it’s time to head out to the mountains. First, there are few things you should make sure are squared away. It’s essential to have things like your registration and insurance squared away before hitting that fresh white powder. Also, you may want to consider taking a snowmobile safety course for extra precaution.
California Snowmobile Registration
Before you strap on your helmet, make sure your snowmobile is properly registered. In California, off-highway vehicles (OHVs) are required to be registered with the DMV. Each OHV will have either a green or red sticker. Green stickers are given to vehicles that comply with California Air Resource Board emission standards and allow for year-round use in OHV riding areas. Red stickers are for vehicles whose emissions outputs do not comply with the California standards. These vehicles can only be used seasonally. It’s important that you obey the laws as they pertain to your registration.
Snowmobile Insurance
It’s true that Snowmobile Insurance is not a legal requirement under California law. However, it’s definitely a good idea to carry. Snowmobile Insurance covers liability if you get into an accident. Plus, there are add-on coverages to protect your finances from more than just a collision. Speak with an Insurance Specialist today at (855) 919-4247 to find out your coverage options. You may also discover that carrying Snowmobile is not only a good idea, but also much more affordable than you thought.
Snowmobile Safety Tips
Below are some safety tips that you should always keep in mind while snowmobiling.
Know your snowmobile. Make sure you have a good working knowledge of your snowmobile and how it works, especially its safety features.- Perform an equipment check. Before heading out, ensure your brake, steering and throttle systems are functioning properly. Also, check that the hood and guards are firmly attached.
- Have an emergency kit. Keep an emergency kit on your snowmobile that includes items like a standard first-aid kit, a flashlight, a rope, a multi-tool, extra spark plugs and a drive belt. It’s also a good idea to keep an extra ignition key in there in case yours gets lost on the trail.
- Carry a portable GPS device. This is especially important when riding the back-country.
- Check your fuel levels. Ensure you have more than enough fuel to get where you’re going and back.
- Ride in OVH designated areas only. It is against the law in California to ride on-road, along the shoulder or in a ditch beside the road.
- Maintain appropriate speeds. There are no speed limits on the trail, but the recognized speed limit in crowded areas, such as lodges and resorts, is 15 MPH. Also, reduce your speed in harsh weather conditions and in times of poor visibility.
- Drive carefully. Always yield to on-coming traffic, domestic animals and wildlife.
- Dress appropriately. Extreme temperatures combined with high speeds can be extremely dangerous. Wear waterproof gear and layer appropriately.
- Never drink and ride. You should never operate any vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Have Fun
Of course, one of the most important things to do while you’re snowmobiling is to have fun. You will be able to have more fun knowing that you’re following the law and have financial protection. Those are just a few less things to worry about while you’re riding. You want to enjoy every second of snowmobiling, right?
The information in this article is obtained from various sources. This content is offered for educational purposes only. It should not replace the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here. Such policy will be governed by the language contained therein, and no warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
