Winter Brings Snow…and Snowmobile Recalls

On February 17, 2022, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC”) posted a recall notice for over 7,400 Polaris snowmobiles after it was found that the throttle release switch (“TRS”) can fail to disengage when the throttle lever is released. If the throttle sticks when the TRS fails to disengage, then the operator can lose control of the snowmobile, posing a crash hazard. It has also been found that the throttle cable on certain model year 2022 MATRYX RMK snowmobiles can be kinked during installation, which can lead to further damage during operation and impairment of throttle function, posing another crash hazard. Consumers have been advised to stop operating the snowmobiles immediately and contact Polaris for an inspection and repair.

 Approximately one (1) week before Polaris recalled its snowmobiles, BRP recalled certain serial numbers of its model year 2022 Expedition, Grand Touring, Renegade, Skandic, and Tundra Ski-Doo snowmobiles after it was determined that the speedometer would indicate approximately half of the true speed. This incorrect reading could alter the driver’s judgment in some riding conditions and result in the vehicle being driven at unsafe speeds, increasing the risk of serious injuries and even death. Owners were advised to immediately stop riding these snowmobiles as well and immediately contact their local Ski-Doo dealer for a repair. If you have been injured in a snowmobile, side-by-side or ATV accident, the law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, and its team of experienced trial lawyers are ready and willing to help.