Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Rules and common sense keep off-road vehicles safe
All-terrain vehicle operators need to be aware of the rules of operating them near a road or highway.
“Even though you can have a lot of fun riding one, you have to remember an ATV is not a toy,” says Lou Gervino, Manager of Driver Education at Manitoba Public Insurance. “To have fun safely you should follow some common-sense rules while away from the roads and obey the law when you’re operating near a road or highway.”
Near the highway
ATVs cannot be legally operated on a road or highway. If you must cross a road, here are some guidelines:
- Stop on the shoulder and look both ways. Yield to any traffic coming from either direction.
- Go directly across the road, not along the road or the shoulder.
- If you are in a group, the first rider should dismount before crossing and wave group members across when safe. The last rider across should dismount and wave the leader across when safe.
- Always assume other vehicle drivers might not see you because they’re looking for cars and trucks, not ATVs.
Off the road
- Don’t operate on private property without the owner’s consent.
- Don’t ride on railways or rights of way.
- Don’t chase domestic animals or wildlife.
- Wear appropriate clothing, including a Snell- or Ansi-approved helmet.
- Don’t mix alcohol or other drugs with ATV riding. Impaired driving laws apply.
“We’re blessed to live in an area with so much wildlife,” said Lou, “but during the fall mating season it’s especially important to adjust our driving habits.”
Seven to 10 deaths and more than 80 injuries are typically reported each year.
“Be a smart rider. Know your machine and use your common sense,” said Lou. “Remember that most injuries and deaths happen when someone is riding on or crossing a road illegally or improperly.”
For more information, watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or check out
ATV Safety tips on this website.
