The Wellington County OPP is issuing safety reminders this fall for ATV and other off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
Tips include always riding sober, as the same drinking and driving laws apply to ATVs and off-road vehicles as they do regular passenger vehicles.
Police also encourage riders to ride only in designated areas like approved trails. Also, riders should not go more than 20 km/h on roads with a posted limit of 50 km/h or less and no more than 50 km/h on roads with a posted limit greater than 50 km/h.
An ATV or off-road vehicle must be registered and display a license plate, except in regions like the far northern regions of Ontario.
Age requirements include being at least 16-years-old for on-road riding,12-years-old for off-road riding and passengers must be at least 8-years-old for on-road riding.
A full list of safety tips from the OPP can be seen below:
ATV Safety Tips
Always Ride Sober: Never operate an ATV/ORV under the influence of drugs or alcohol. (Failure to do do so can relate in a criminal impaired driving related charges).
Take a Safety Course: Enroll in an ATV/ORV safety course.
Stay in Control: Ride within your abilities and comfort level.
Ride in Designated Areas Only: Stick to approved trails and areas.
Keep Noise Levels Low: Be mindful of your surroundings and wildlife.
Pre-Ride Safety Inspection: Check brakes, lights, tires, and fuel before riding.
Speed Limits for ATVs/ORVs
No more than 20 km/h on roads with a posted limit of 50 km/h or less.
No more than 50 km/h on roads with a posted limit greater than 50 km/h.
Off-Road Riding Requirements
Registration: An ATV/ORV must be registered and display a license plate (except in exempt areas like far northern Ontario).
Insurance: Must be insured under a motor vehicle liability policy.
Driver must carry the ORV's registration permit or a copy.
Can directly cross a highway only if: (The vehicle is registered and displays a license plate, The vehicle is insured under a motor vehicle liability policy, and the driver is at least 16 years old and has a valid G2 driver's license of any class.
On-Road Riding Requirements
Registration: An ATV/ORV must be registered and display a license plate (except in exempt areas like far northern Ontario).
Insurance: Must be insured under a motor vehicle liability policy.
Hold at least a valid G2 or M2 licence.
Travel at speeds less than the posted speed limit
Helmet (fastened) for both driver and passenger.
Have all lights on while travelling on roads.
Travel in the same direction as traffic on the shoulder. If the shoulder is unsafe or too narrow, riding on the traveled portion of the road is permitted.
No passengers under 8 years of age.
Age Requirements
16 years old for on-road riding.
12 years old for off-road riding.
(Passenger): 8 years old for on-road riding.
Common Complaints Reported
Trespassing
Noise - mufflers
Careless operation
Speeding
