Snowmobiling: three safety tips to take on board right away

1- Obey the law and trail signage rules

It is worth remembering that the Quebec snowmobile club federationopen_in_new (FCMQ) manages trail access rights. Purchasing a membership card allows you to ride on the trails of any snowmobile club in Quebec. To make the most of your experience, be sure to adhere to the current regulations:

• Riding on public roads is prohibited, except in rare cases provided for by law.
• The maximum speed limit is 70 km/h on marked trails. If you are travelling within 30 metres of a residence, the speed limit is reduced to 30 km/h, even if there are no signs indicating this.
• You must register your snowmobile, even if you only use it on designated trails. The licence plate must be affixed to the snowmobile and clearly visible.
• Needless to say, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.
• Whether you’re the driver or a passenger on the snowmobile, wear a helmet that meets the standards recommendedopen_in_new by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) at all times.

2- Avoid crossing bodies of water where the ice is less than 12 cm thick

Another tip: steer clear of unmarked bodies of water. It's difficult to assess the condition of the ice, and it may not be strong enough to withstand multiple snowmobile crossings.

In fact, ice thickness is never uniform across a body of water. Some areas tend to thin out before others due to the presence of a stronger current. And be careful! If you notice that the snow is heavy and wet, there's likely open water flowing beneath it. Be cautious and adjust your route accordingly…

In any case, the ice must be assessed—meaning measured—at several locations. To operate a snowmobile, the ice must be at least 12 cm (almost 5 inches) thick.

3- Take the mandatory course if you are 16 or 17 years old

The minimum age for driving a snowmobile in Quebec is 16. Snowmobilers who are 16 and 17 must not only have a valid driver’s licence, but also a training certificateopen_in_new to operate an off-road vehicle.

According to the SAAQ, regardless of the age of the snowmobile driver, they must always have the following documentsopen_in_new in their possession on the trails:

• proof of civil liability insurance
• the vehicle's registration certificate
• a document that can attest to your age
• a valid driver’s licence
• your training certificate, if applicable
• the trail permit, if applicable

Snowmobile insurance: don't leave home without it!

Snowmobile owners in Quebec must have civil liability insurance in the amount of at least $1 million, as required by the Act respecting off-highway vehicles. Snowmobile insurance can also include coverage against collision and upset risks or “all perils” coverage (including fire, theft and vandalism). Finally, to prevent a thief getting their hands on your snowmobile, read our article on how to keep your snowmobile from getting stolen!

Conclusion? Don’t venture out without snowmobile insurance (see our essential guide, here) and… don’t go solo either! Riding with a group not only makes it safer in the event of a problem but also adds to the fun of sharing a ride with family or friends.