The provincial government is reminding snowmobile enthusiasts to follow the rules this winter.
Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development says conservation officers will be conducting snowmobile patrols throughout the winter to help ensure public safety.
Snowmobile accidents and fatalities have been on the rise in Manitoba in recent years. In 2021, there were 15 serious or fatal crashes, up from 13 in 2020 and 12 in 2019.
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The province noted in a media release that a Snopass permit is required to ride on trails managed by Snoman. A Snopass costs $150 for an annual permit or $75 for a seven-day permit and can be purchased through Manitoba Public Insurance. More information is available at the Snoman website.
The province also noted several actions can result in provincial fines, such as:
- operating a snowmobile without a Snoman permit ($486 fine);
- operating an unregistered off-road vehicle ($174 fine);
- failure to wear a helmet ($174 fine); and
- public consumption of alcohol ($672 fine).
Impaired operation of a snowmobile carries with it the same consequences as driving a vehicle while impaired. Penalties can include significant fines, impoundment of the snowmobile and a conviction resulting in a criminal record.
Conservation officers and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be monitoring trails for impaired driving offences throughout the winter.
