It’s that time of year! If your child is at least 10 years old, he/she can take a New York State snowmobile safety course.
Here is “the law” in regards to riding snowmobiles in New York State:
Operator Requirements
- Anyone who is at least 18 years old may operate a snowmobile in New York State without any other qualification except as defined by state and local laws regulating that operation. However, it is recommended that all operators complete a recognized snowmobile safety course.
- Youth ages 14 through 17 years old may operate a snowmobile without adult or other supervision if they have completed a snowmobile safety training course recognized by the State of New York.
- Youth ages 10 through 13 may operate a snowmobile, on lands upon which snowmobiling is allowed, if they have completed a snowmobile safety training course recognized by the State of New York and are accompanied by (within 500 feet of) a person who is at least 18 years of age.
- The Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will issue a snowmobile safety certificate to those who successfully complete this course. Youths who do not hold this certificate are subject to the same restrictions as children under the age of 14 years.
- Children under 10 years old or under age 14 without a safety certificate may operate a snowmobile only on lands owned or leased by their parent or guardian.
There are plenty of classes scheduled throughout the winter:
http://nysparks.com/recreation/snowmobiles/safety-courses.aspx
The power and speed of today’s snowmobiles make it vitally important that we teach the next generation of riders the basics of SAFE snowmobiling. Safety classes are only the beginning. We must be an excellent example of how to have safe fun on a snowmobile. Kids will do as we do!
Darrin @ ilsnow.com
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