There have been 13 deaths from snowmobile accidents in Wisconsin already this winter season, compared to nine fatalities at the same time last year. And more than half of this year's crashes took place at night.
Bayfield County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy Paul Susienka says they don't seem to be following the state trend of snowmobile fatalities this season. In fact, he says there have only been three crashes in the county compared to five accidents at the same time last year.
"We've had snow a little earlier than in the past, so statistically that may be cause for more accidents," Susienka said.
Bayfield County Recreation Enforcement Officer Larry Loch says they monitor trails to make sure they're well-signed and marked. But that can't solve some of the basic problems.
"The majority of people who do a lot of riding usually start to ride too fast, ride when they're tired and sometimes alcohol is a factor," Loch said.
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Douglas County Sheriff Tom Dalbec says they've seen two deaths from snowmobile accidents. He says people need to be familiar with the rules and the machines they're riding.
"Get used to the feel of it and how it handles and operates," he said. "Certainly watch your speed. Those things -- they'll go 120 miles an hour in the blink of an eye."
Susienka agreed and hopes people will pay closer attention to conditions.
"Drive according to the visibility and the trail conditions," he said. "Don't consume excessive alcohol. Be careful of oncoming traffic. Realize that trails are narrow and conditions change from day to day. Slow down."
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website lists 25 snowmobile deaths last year -- following a downward trend from 26 in the 2006-2007 season and 36 fatalities in 2005-2006.
