15
BRIGHT SUNSHINE
Bright sunny days can produce different problems. The glare from
sun and snow may blind you to the extent that you cannot easily
distinguish ravines, ditches or other obstacles. Goggles with colored
lenses should always be worn under these conditions.
UNSEEN OBSTRUCTION
There may be obstructions hidden beneath the snow. Driving off es-
tablished trails and in the woods requires reduced speed and in-
creased vigilance. Driving too fast in an area can make even minor
obstacles very hazardous. Even hitting a small rock or stump could
throw your snowmobile out of control and cause injury to its riders.
Stay on established trails to reduce your exposure to hazards. Be
safe, slow down and enjoy the scenery.
HIDDEN WIRES
Always be on the lookout for hidden wires, especially in areas that
may have been farmed at one time or another. Too many accidents
have been caused by running into wires in the fields, guy wires next
to poles and roads, and into chains and wires used as road closures.
Slow speeds are a must.
OBSTACLES AND JUMPING
Unplanned jumps of snowdrifts, snowplow ridges, culverts or indis-
tinguishable objects can be dangerous. You can avoid them by wear-
ing the proper color lenses or face shields and by operating at a lower
speed.
Jumping a snowmobile is an unsafe and dangerous practice. How-
ever, if the trail does suddenly drop away from you, crouch (stand)
towards the rear of the vehicle and keep the skis up and straight
ahead. Apply partial throttle and brace yourself for the impact. Knees
must be flexed to act as shock absorbers.
MDD2002-001a.FM Page 15 Wednesday, January 3, 2001 9:39 AM