Ontario Provincial Police are reminding drivers of off-road vehicles to know where and when they’re permitted, and to ride them safely.
Off-road vehicle is a broad term that covers many vehicles, including ATVs and off-road motorcycles. Off-road vehicles are not allowed on all roadways. Drivers are advised to check both local by-laws and provincial law to determine where these vehicles are permitted to drive.
When driving off-road vehicles, impaired driving laws still apply. Riders are also required to wear a helmet, and the vehicle must be registered, plated, and insured. Drivers must also be older than 12 years of age. When driving an off-road vehicle on public roads, off-road vehicles are required to obey speed limits of 20km/h where the maximum posted speed is 50km/h or less. On roads with a higher posted speed, off-road vehicles are allowed to drive 50km/h.
OPP are asking parents and guardians to help young riders become safe drivers by being the example and teaching them the proper way to operate off-road vehicles.
