Throughout much of the year, the Southeastern region of Manitoba is home to some of the most popular ATV trails in the province, resulting in an increased amount of ATV traffic in the area during this time.
Sprague RCMP receive complaints from time to time about ATV riders that aren’t following the rules or are operating ATV’s in an unsafe manner. In response to some of these complaints, RCMP have worked closely with members of the local government, organizers of the local ATV associations, and members of the community to try and promote safe riding in the area. In the last month, RCMP have conducted a number of ATV awareness initiatives including members going on patrols with RCMP ATV’s in Woodridge and surrounding area to educate riders and enforce the provisions of the Off Road Vehicle Act.
Some of the most common infractions continue to be:
- riders not wearing helmets
- having too many riders than the ATV is designed for
- driver’s operating ATV’s on or across a roadway without holding a valid driver’s licence
- driver’s operating ATV’s on streets in town where it is prohibited or on a roadway
- driver’s operating an ATV without valid registration.
The Sprague RCMP would like to remind the public to familiarize themselves with the Off Road Vehicle Act and to operate their ATV’s in a respectful and safe manner.
For the remainder of the year, RCMP will continue to show an increased presence along popular ATV trails in the Southeast and if necessary, will be issuing fines for those riders that are not following the law.
Some of the fine amounts are:
- Fail to wear helmet – $175.30
- Have more passengers that an allowed on an ORV – $113.10
- Operate an ORV directly across a roadway and shoulder without a valid driver’s licence – To Be Determined By a Justice
- Operate an ORV on or across a roadway or shoulder – $113.10
- Operate an unregistered Off Road Vehicle (ORV) – $175.30
In addition to the above, RCMP continue to stress the dangers of mixing alcohol and operating any motor vehicle, including ATV’s and other Off Road Vehicles. Any impaired driving charge received while operating an Off Road Vehicle carries the same penalties that a driver operating any other motor vehicle would receive.
If you have any questions about the Provincial Laws governing Off Road Vehicle use in Manitoba please refer to the website or contact your local RCMP Detachment.
