Deaths associated with snowmobiles are up sharply in the province of Quebec, but down in the neighbouring province of Ontario.
Three people died in unrelated accidents in Quebec on Saturday bringing the total there to 26 so far this season, compared with 20 last winter. This is the highest number of snowmobile deaths in the last seven years. And winter is not over yet.
Police say inexperience and alcohol are contributing factors in most accidents involving snowmobiles. Enthusiasts say the increase may have to do with the weather. Very cold temperatures experienced this January and February can make it easier to lose control of the vehicles, and more snow this year means more people may be out using them.
That however does not account for the decrease in accidents in Ontario where conditions are similar.
Police patrol trails every year and issue hundreds of tickets for speeding offenses and drunk driving.
For reasons beyond our control, and for an undetermined period of time, our comment section is now closed. However, our social networks remain open to your contributions.