Do you know Pennsylvania's snowmobiling laws?

If you are interested in using a snowmobile in Pennsylvania this summer, there are some rules and regulations that you need to know before you begin! 

For example, did you know that it is illegal to operate or be a passenger a snowmobile without wearing a properly fitted helmet? Also, no children aged 10-16 can operate a snowmobile except on family land.  This case is only changed if the child has taken a state-approved safety course and has received a certificate.

Also, many people may not realize that all snowmobiles that require general registration all need liability insurance coverage.  Proof of this coverage needs to be carried by the snowmobile operator.  If you fail to register your snowmobile and/or fail to obtain liability coverage, you may be fined up to $300.  There are also very specific regulations in Pennsylvania regarding brake systems, mufflers, sound levels, and visibility equipment.  So, the bottom line is: enjoy your snowmobile, but make sure to follow the state laws!

As fun and enjoyable as snowmobiling can be, all-terrain and off-road vehicles such as ATVs, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles are a leading cause of serious injury among Pennsylvanians, especially among our state’s youth.   Attorney Doug Stoehr of Altoona, PA handles cases involving injury as a result of accidents involving off-road vehicles.  For more information about Attorney Doug Stoehr and his Blair county area practice, please visit his website at http://www.stoehrlaw.com or call his law firm at 814-946-4100.

For more information about Pennsylvania's snowmobiling laws, please visit the original PDF handout here: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/cs/groups/public/documents/document/dcnr_015958.pdf.