Getting Ready for Snowmobile Season

Winter is just around the corner, and snowmobile fans are getting ready to hit the trails for another thrilling season. But before you rev up and ride, it’s a good idea to make sure both your snowmobile and your insurance are good to go. In this blog, we’ll share some tips to help you stay safe, get prepared, and make sure your snowmobile insurance has you covered for the adventures ahead.

Winterizing Your Snowmobile

Getting your snowmobile ready before the season starts is the best way to ensure it runs smoothly and safely all winter long. A little pre-season prep can go a long way in keeping your sled reliable and performing at its best. Before you hit the trails, take some time to check these key areas:

Fluid Levels

Make sure your gas, brake fluid, and coolant levels are where they should be, and top them off if they’re low. If there’s leftover gas from last season, it’s a good idea to drain the tank and refill it with fresh fuel to avoid any performance issues.

Battery

Test your battery and charge it if needed. If it’s showing signs of wear, it’s a good idea to replace it—nobody wants to deal with a dead battery when it’s freezing outside.

Engine

Make sure your carburetors are clean—dirty carburetors are one of the leading causes of engine trouble. While you’re at it, check the throttle, oil cables, fan, and water pump belt to ensure they’re in good shape with no cracks. A little attention to these details can save you a lot of headaches later!

Skis & Track

Inspect the skis for any signs of wear or damage. Check the track to ensure it’s properly tensioned and in good condition. A loose or damaged track can affect both performance and safety.

Safety Tips Before You Ride

If you’re snowmobiling in Ontario, it’s your responsibility to know and follow the laws around snowmobiles before you hit the trails, such as wearing a helmet and having a licence. In addition to knowing the laws, here are some tips to help keep you safe:

Take a snowmobile safety course to brush up on your skills
Pack a first-aid kit and a survival kit—just in case
Pack an emergency tool kit (with spark plugs and drive and fan belts) with an extra key
Always let someone know your plans—where you’re headed and when you expect to be back
Keep your gas tank topped off to avoid any unexpected stops
Check the weather, trail, and ice conditions before heading out—it’s better to be safe than sorry
Double-check that the trails you plan to ride are open and accessible before you go
Dress in layers and wear proper gear to protect yourself from the cold and prevent hypothermia
Give your snowmobile a quick inspection to ensure everything’s in good working order
Do not use alcohol or drugs while riding

Don’t Forget Your Winter Gear

Make sure to wear well-insulated protective gear, like goggles, a waterproof snowmobile suit, gloves, and rubber-bottomed boots to stay warm and safe
Always wear a helmet that meets Canadian safety standards, and make sure your passengers do too—its the law
Attach a brightly coloured antenna flag (1.2 to 2.4 meters tall) to the back of your snowmobile, especially if you’re riding in hilly areas—it helps others spot you
Bring a cell phone if there’s service where you’re riding, or consider a satellite phone for better coverage in remote areas

Snowmobile Insurance from Oracle RMS

In Ontario, unless you are driving a snowmobile on private property, you must have snowmobile insurance. At Oracle RMS, we understand how important it is to be protected and have peace of mind while you’re riding, so that’s why our customized policies include the exact coverage you need:

Third-Party Liability Coverage

You’ll need at least $200,000 in liability coverage to cover third-party injuries, death, or property damage caused to others. This also covers legal costs if you’re sued.

Statutory Accident Benefits Coverage

This coverage provides extra benefits for medical care, rehabilitation, income replacement, caregiver support, and more if you’re injured, no matter who’s at fault.

Direct Compensation – Property Damage (DCPD) Coverage

This coverage covers damage to your snowmobile and its contents if another insured driver is at fault in Ontario. Instead of waiting on their insurance, you can go through your own insurance, speeding up the claims process.

Uninsured Automobile Coverage

This coverage offers financial protection if you or your family are injured or killed by an uninsured or unidentified driver. It also covers up to $25,000 in damages to your snowmobile caused by an uninsured driver.

Additional Coverage Options for Your Snowmobile Insurance Policy

Snowmobile insurance is a lot like car insurance. It comes with mandatory coverages as well as optional ones. A couple of popular optional coverages include:

Collision coverage

Accidents can happen, especially when you’re out on public property. If your snowmobile collides with a vehicle or another object and gets damaged, collision coverage can help cover the costs and give you the financial protection you need.

Comprehensive coverage

Collision coverage is great, but it doesn’t cover everything. That’s where comprehensive coverage comes in—it helps with costs from things like fire, natural disasters, falling objects, or even hitting an animal. It’s a smart way to protect your snowmobile from the unexpected.

Get Snowmobile Insurance Today from Oracle RMS

Take a moment to review your snowmobile insurance policy before the season starts. Make sure you’ve got the right coverage for whatever comes your way—whether it’s liability or comprehensive protection for things like theft or accidents.

If you’ve just bought a snowmobile and need insurance or have questions about your current coverage, an Oracle RMS insurance broker is here to help. We’ll work with top local companies to find you the best snowmobile insurance quote tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for new coverage or just want to review your existing policy, we’ve got you covered—and we’re happy to answer any questions along the way!