Despite Heavy Snowfall, Snowmobile Deaths In Wisconsin Have Not Increased

Even though there has been large amount of snowfall in Wisconsin this year, snowmobile deaths haven’t been higher than normal.

Department of Natural Resources Chief Warden Todd Schaller said one death is too many, but that the 22 people killed so far this year could have been worse. Schaller says 19 of the fatalities came from too much speed or a combination of speed and alcohol. Fourteen of the fatal crashes happened at night.

Bayfield County had its first fatal crash last weekend. Sheriff Paul Susienka said that’s better than usual. He too says heavy snow statewide has helped.

“When there’s a great deal of snow, there’s less concentration,” said Susienka. “Deep snow tends to slow people up if they go off the trail. The trails haven’t been really icy.”

The high number of snowmobile deaths in one year was 39 in 2000-2001; the fewest was eight in 1983-1984.