While snowmobiling conditions have been close to perfect this year, West Region OPP says the riding behaviour of some individuals on area trails has not.
Officers patrolling the routes during Ontario Snowmobiling Safety Week, from February 10 to 17, laid 49 charges.
They included two impaired riding charges, two muffler charges, and 38 document charges relating to permit, licence, registration and insurance issues.
The week-long campaign targeted unsafe riding behaviours that lead to death, injury and property damage both on and off Ontario snowmobiling trails.
OPP said excessive speed, riding too fast for the conditions and alcohol impairment continue to be the leading contributing factors in fatal snowmobile collisions.
Traffic and Marine Manager Chuck Lorway wants people to ride safely and have fun.
"This winter's ideal riding conditions mean snowmobile enthusiasts are in for a long and enjoyable season this year. The OPP encourages all riders to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations before heading out on the trails to enjoy their sport," Lorway said.
Officers are reminding snowmobilers it's against the law to access and ride on Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trails that are unavailable (all those highlighted in red on the Interactive Trail Guide).
