Canada is seen as a winter wonderland, with snowmobiling as a popular recreational activity during the snowy season. If you are a fan of snowmobiling, there are a few important laws to follow to enjoy the activity safely. Even though snowmobiles are considered “off-road”, they are still classified as vehicles under provincial law in Ontario. This means that if you were hit by a snowmobile or otherwise injured in a snowmobile accident, you can receive similar compensation to that available to people injured in car accidents.
Snowmobile Accident Laws in Ontario
Under Ontario law, snowmobile drivers must:
- Be at least 12 years old if driving the snow mobile on a trail or at least 16 years old if operating a snow mobile along a highway
- Have a valid driver’s license or motorized snow vehicle operator’s license
- Register the snowmobile with the Ministry of Transportation
- The motorized snow vehicle must be insured
Anyone who carelessly or recklessly drives a snowmobile and causes damage or injury can be found guilty of an offense.
For example:
- Operating under the influence
- Speeding
- Driving irresponsibly at night
Snowmobile owners are held jointly liable for any damage or injury caused by a driver. As with standard passenger vehicles, you may be entitled to compensation if you were injured as a result of a defect in the motorized snow vehicle.
Car Accident Laws in Ontario
The laws for operating a car are similar to driving a snowmobile in Ontario. The owner of a car may be found liable in the event of an accident even if he or she is not the one driving the car.
Similar to snowmobile accidents, getting compensation after a car accident can be a complex process. Some of your avenues for payment include filing a tort-based lawsuit, submitting an accident benefits claim, or applying for disability benefits.
If You Were Hurt in a Snowmobile Crash
There is a short statute of limitations as to when you can issue a Statement of Claim after a crash. You must notify your insurance company within one week of the crash, and if someone else caused your injuries in a snowmobile crash, you have two years to bring a lawsuit against them to recover compensation.
When it comes to assessing liability in a snowmobile crash, an investigation will be held to determine whether the driver was operating the vehicle safely and legally.
You may recover Accident Benefits compensation, including financial assistance for medical and rehabilitation expenses, caregiver expenses, and income replacement benefits.
Who Can Help?
An experienced personal injury lawyer will help you get your documents in order so that you can start a lawsuit and get the most compensation possible for your pain and suffering. It can be difficult to advocate for yourself after an accident. Personal injury lawyers know how to best communicate with insurance companies and fight for you to receive the benefits you deserve.
