As Presidents Day approaches, bringing a three-day weekend and an uptick in outdoor recreational activity, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is championing the "Ride Right" campaign to promote snowmobile and off-road vehicle (ORV) safety, emphasizing the critical importance of responsible riding practices for those looking to make the most of the snowy landscape.
A troubling tally of nine snowmobile-related deaths has been recorded so far in the 2025-26 winter season, which according to the Department of Natural Resources, can largely be attributed to preventable causes like excessive speed, lack of control, and impaired operation; Acting 2nd Lt. Mike Hearn, part of the DNR Law Enforcement Division's Recreational Safety, Education and Enforcement Section lamented these tragedies, noting that frequently "many of the fatalities we see are related to factors that could have been avoided or better managed: speed, primarily, such as taking a corner too fast, not being able to stop in time and colliding into a tree, vehicle or another rider."
To combat these hazards, the DNR's guidelines urge snowmobile and ORV enthusiasts to ride at safe speeds, remain sober, and pay mind to the right side of the trail, they also recommend always wearing a helmet, keeping headlights on, maintaining a safe trailing distance, and proceeding with extra care in conditions of reduced visibility; mindful that, the trails are shared spaces often frequented by groomers and nonmotorized users who have the right-of-way, so riders are advised to yield accordingly.
For those drawn to the crisp allure of ice-covered terrains, Michigan.gov/IceSafety urges extra precaution: riders should personally inspect the ice for stability, armed with ice picks and tools like a spud, auger, or axe because, ice thickness can be deceptive may not bear the same integrity across its expansiveness, as affirmed by the DNR's insistence that it's essential to "check the ice for yourself" instead of trusting second-hand reports.
Regulatory reminders were also highlighted, clarifying Michigan's requirements that all young operators between 12 to 16 years of age must earn a snowmobile safety certificate to operate without a guardian or to cross streets, and similarly, young ORV users must complete an approved ORV safety course, carry the relevant safety certificate and ride under adult supervision; these certifications can be pursued at Michigan.gov/Snowmobiling for snowmobiles and Michigan.gov/ORVInfo for ORVs, resources which also offer guidance on trails and permit purchases. Additionally, the DNR encourages spreading the message of safe riding by downloading and sharing free digital ads available through Michigan.gov/RideRight.
