RCMP stress safety for off-highway vehicle drivers

By CityNews Halifax Staff

RCMP are stressing safety for drivers of ATVs and other off-highway vehicles (OHVs).

“Every year, the RCMP responds to numerous fatal and serious injury collisions involving ATVs,” says S/Sgt. Ben Parry from the Traffic Services Unit. 

“However, we’re hearing from various detachments across the province that over the past few years, hardly a weekend goes by without a call to an ATV incident.”

In a news release, he says impaired driving, speed, distracted operation, and sometime a combination of all three are the main causes of serious injuries. 

Not using protective equipment properly is another risk.

“When you get on an off-road vehicle, safety needs to be your number one priority,” says S/Sgt. Parry. “Otherwise, your life – and the lives of others – is at risk.”

“Ride sober. Don’t speed. Pay attention. Operate the machine according to your skill level. And wear safety gear, including a proper helmet.”

There are around 50,000 registered OHVs in the province, with an 18 per cent increase reported in 2020 and 2021.

RCMP say there's no way to know for sure how many crashes involving OHVs take place, because it's only mandatory to report them if they happen on public roadways.

Anyone violating the Off-Highway Vehicles Act could face a penalty of $200-$2,000 for a first offence and have their vehicle seized. Those driving impaired could be charged under the Criminal Code.

If the operator is 16 years old or under, their parents or guardians are held responsible.

“Fall is a beautiful time of the year to explore Nova Scotia,” says S/Sgt. Parry.

“While OHV operators are encouraged to have fun while enjoying the outdoors, our message is to ride safely – for their sake and the sake of others.”

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