The Manitoba Driver, from Manitoba Public Insurance
June 2008

About 280 words
Don’t forget the insurance for your off-road vehicle

What should be an enjoyable excursion in the great outdoors ends in tragedy ever year for a handful of people involved in accidents with their off-road vehicles (ORV). In 2006, 12 people were killed and 138 injured in off-road vehicle collisions.

Aside from dealing with the personal injury, not having the proper insurance coverage could prove financially devastating, says Dale Holm of Manitoba Public Insurance.

“You could be responsible for paying your own medical care, replacement of your machine, damages in a civil suit or not collecting any money while being off work,” says Holm who is manager of Manitoba Public Insurance’s Autopac Extension Department.

“ORV owners need to sit down with their Autopac broker and discuss what coverage packages are available.”

Basic registration of an ORV provides the owner with $200,000 of third party liability protection. Manitoba Public Insurance’s Personal Injury Protection Plan (PIPP), which covers automobile injuries, covers ORV riders in one situation only – if the ORV collides with a moving automobile.

ORV owners can purchase the following extension policies: additional third party liability coverage, comprehensive (theft and fire/vandalism/hail), accident benefits and collision.

Before selling you this coverage, your Autopac agent may need to inspect your ORV for any pre-existing damage.

Safe operation of an ORV is largely the result of driver behaviour. ORV operators are expected to observe the rules of the road. With few exceptions, ORV riders must wear a properly fastened safety helmet.

Drivers aged 15 ½ or older must hold a valid driver’s licence. Children under 14 must not operate ORVs unless supervised, accompanied by, and always within clear view of, a parent or someone at least 18 who is authorized by the child’s parent.

Those wishing more information regarding ORV insurance coverage are encouraged to contact their Autopac broker.

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© 2008 Manitoba Public Insurance

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