Careless operation is another leading cause of snowmobile deaths. Always drive defensively, at safe speeds, and as if you would encounter a careless driver or another hazard at any time.

Careless snowmobiling operation comes in many forms, including but not limited to:

• Hugging the inside corners on curves
• Speeding, particularly when near non-motorized trail users, trailheads, buildings, livestock or wildlife
• Over riding headlights
• Riding too fast in foggy or snowy conditions
• Riding your snowmobile on prohibited roads
• Failure to obey signs and regulations
• Riding on the wrong side of the trail
• Following other snowmobiles too closely
• Passing on corners and blind hills
• Approaching blind hills at excessive speeds