In snowy Michigan, snowmobiling is a beloved past time for residents of all ages. Even though it can be a fun activity, it can also be incredibly dangerous. As a Michigan personal injury lawyer, it is common to assist clients who have sustained severe personal injury in a winter recreational accident–much like the tragic example of the two Michigan sisters who were recently killed in a snowmobile accident.

According to Michigan State Police, Karen Schwarck, 59, and Edith Bonno, 57 were up north enjoying an annual winter festival on the island. After the festivities, they took a snowmobile ride on the trails of historic Mackinac Island, attempting to take photographs of the beautiful winter scenery. Schwarck’s husband Donald reported the two ladies missing when they did not return home by 10:15 that evening. Law enforcement officials found the two bodies at the bottom of a steep hill. Mackinac Island Police speculate that the women lost control of the snowmobile due to the snowy weather conditions. Furthermore, it is not believed that alcohol played a factor in this tragic recreational accident.

Snowy, winter weather creates an ideal environment for fun and exciting recreational activities. However, because of the slick conditions, it also creates a prime situation for recreational accidents to occur. As seen by the example of the two Detroit sisters, severe personal injury or death can ensue, even with the most experienced riders. It is important to eliminate as many distracting factors as possible, such as cell phones. Taking your attention off of the road even for a split second could cause a tragic accident. According to Michigan State Police, there have been at least fifteen other snowmobile accident fatalities since December, 2009. Therefore, this winter The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell encourages all those participating in recreational activities this winter to pay attention and play it safe!


Winter recreational activities such as skiing are favorite past times of many. However, this exciting sport has great potential for personal injury and causing accidents. This is evident from the recent Idado teenager who was found dead after a weekend trip skiing at Schweitzer Mountain in Idaho.

A group of snowboarders discovered fifteen year-old William Johnson laying unconscious and unresponsive in the middle of a tree well. They immediately reported this to the ski patrol. However, when the ski patrol arrived on the scene, they only found the young man and not the reporters.

The recreational accident is still under investigation. Tree wells can be dangerous on ski runs, as they can form in obscure locations. Holes form around the bases of coniferous trees in ungroomed portions of ski resorts. These holes are created when low-hanging branches keep snow from consolidating around the base of the tree. This makes a deep void that is hidden by branches.  Falling in one of these holes can cause severe personal injury and/or death. Commonly known as a “Non-avalanche related snow immersion death,” potential risks can include suffocation and asphyxiation.

The odds of an individual surviving such an accident alone are very low. T hat is why it is important to ski with a partner in case of any sort of personal injury. Recreational accidents can result in life-changing injury. Should you or a loved one be injured in an accident, it is important to contact a hard-working personal injury lawyer to guide you through the legal process. The Law Offices of Bredell and Bredell have years of experience representing those who have been injured in a variety of accidents. Please do not hesitate to contact us today!



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