One man died and a child was injured last Tuesday night in a snowmobile accident near Iron Mountain. Around 5:30 pm Michigan State troopers responded to a snowmobile accident near Knight Avenue and South Park Avenue in Breitung Township first responder found a 43-year-old and 9-year-old passenger had struck a tree while riding. The 43-year-old was transported to a hospital in Green Bay but succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. State police say the 9-year-old passenger is expected to recover from minor injuries sustained in the incident.
Troopers say that both riders appeared to have not been wearing helmets at the time, and speed and a loss of control contributed to the crash. Snowmobile clubs, search, and rescue responders, and state police remind recreationalists to please slow down while enjoying the snowmobile trails.
Accidents can occur in a single moment, and trail groomers only recently began grooming trail networks. Off road trails have a variety of obstacles that rest just below the surface of the snowpack. In 2023 the DNR recorded 4 deaths during the snowmobile season, and in 2022 19 fatal incidents. 11 of which occurred in the Upper Peninsula.
Michigan DNR several years ago began the Ride Right campaign to promote safe practices on the trail in summer and winter. Ride Right asks those on snow machines and off-road vehicles to wear all protective equipment, including a helmet. Travel trails at a speed you are comfortable traveling, and stay to the right side of the trail for oncoming traffic or trail groomers. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for oncoming turns, other snowmobiles, and obstacles. Learn more about snowmobile trail safety here.
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