Grey Bruce OPP is providing safety tips for off-road vehicles after seeing an increase on roads, trails, and complaints of going on private property.
Police encourage riders to check with their local municipality to determine if off-road vehicle usage is permitted, as municipalities have the authority to create by-law to restrict and prohibit usage of these vehicles. Additionally, make sure you are on a public trail and not on private property.
If you plan to take your off-road vehicle on a trail, make sure you have a permit if required.
Other tips to consider for off-road vehicles include:
-All operators must be at least 16-years-old and hold a minimum valid G2 or M2 licence.
-Wear an approved motorcycle helmet.
-Drive in the same direction as traffic and on the shoulder where available.
-The vehicle must be registered, plated and insured.
-No Passengers under the age of eight, and the number of occupants is limited to the number of available seating positions.
-Have headlights and taillights on between sunset and sunrise or when the weather is unfavourable.
-If the posted speed limit is 50 kilometres an hour or less, the limit for off-road vehicles is 20 kilometres an hour.
-If the posted speed limit is greater than 50 kilometres an hour, the limit for off-road vehicles is 50 kilometres an hour.
Police say off-road drivers must be at least 12-years-old, unless directly supervised by an adult or while driving on land occupied by the owner of the off-road vehicle.