Snowmobile deaths in Ontario rise to 20

By Lindsey Harren

BELLEVILLE – Snowmobile accidents have claimed 20 lives in so far this season, double the number of last year, according to the OPP.

Fragile ice, speeding and distracted driving have been the causes  of this winter’s deaths, the OPP said in a press release Monday.

Thirteen snowmobilers have died in the past six weeks alone, according to the police.

Brad Blair, OPP deputy commissioner, said that middle-age men make up a big part of that death toll.

The OPP and the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs remind snowmobilers that spring is here. They are encouraging people to avoid bodies of water and watch the trail conditions.