ATV Complaints on the Rise

(Huron County, ON) Sightings of off-road vehicles are becoming more commonplace on our highways. The Huron OPP is seeing an increase in complaints regarding the illegal use of Off-Road Vehicles (ORV), mainly dirt bikes and All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), on roadways in Huron County.

Where can you ride an ATV?

As a general rule, Provincial highways, construction zones, closed roads and parks are off limits. Some individual Municipalities in Huron County have passed by-laws that specify when and where an ATV may be operated within their jurisdiction. Please remember that a Municipality only has jurisdiction over municipal roads and not county roads that may run through that Municipality.

Do not trespass on private property when riding an ATV. Virtually all open fields are owned by someone and are not to be entered without permission from the land owner. Trespassers may be arrested and charged.

What type of off-road vehicle may be driven on the road?

The Regulations that allow a certain class of ATVs on the roadway apply only to one category of off-road vehicle, defined as an all-terrain vehicle. An all-terrain vehicle means an off-road vehicle that:

o Has four wheels, the tires of which are all in contact with the ground;
o Has steering handlebars;
o Has a seat that is designed to be straddled by the driver;
o Is designed to carry a driver only and no passengers and;
o Meet specific criteria concerning weight and dimensions, tires, brakes, lighting.

Off-road vehicles such as 3-wheeled ATV’s, mini-bikes, dirt bikes and moto-cross bikes do not qualify under the exemption and cannot be operated on the roadway or the shoulder of the roadway from fence line to fence line.

Do you have to be licensed?

Drivers must have a valid G2/M2 (or greater) driver’s license. In addition the all-terrain vehicle must be insured, registered and plated. Previous exemptions for farmers, trappers and public utility workers have not changed.

What about the rules of the road?
Firstly, passengers are not allowed and approved helmets must be worn at all times. Speed limits must be observed and are lower then those posted for motor vehicles. On roadways with a maximum posted speed of up to 50 km/h, an ATV may be operated at a maximum speed of 20 km/h. On roadways with a maximum posted speed of over 50 km/h, an ATV may be operated at a maximum speed of 50 km/h.

“Off road” does not mean “on the highway”, “on the roadway” or “on the street”. Once on the highway, streets or roadways the ORV is now subject to the Highway Traffic Act and the appropriate charges and fines. “Highway” means the Provincial, County and Township roadways. This includes the paved portion, shoulders and ditch areas from fence line to fence line. A farmer is exempt if they are using the ORV for agricultural purposes with a slow moving vehicle sign attached, they are wearing a helmet, have insurance and the ORV is properly registered.

If you are stopped on the Highway you will have to produce:

o Driver’s licence
o Proper licence plates and documentation
o Proper motor vehicle liability insurance
o Proper helmet
o If you are stopped (anywhere) and have been drinking alcohol, you could be charged with impaired driving.

As a large number of these ORV riders are young people, the Huron OPP are reminding parents to know where their children are riding and go over their responsibilities with them. If you are uncertain about the rules, members of the Huron OPP would be happy to answer your questions.

Off Road vehicles are not toys. Talk with your youth NOW and drive responsibly!

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