What is and isn't allowed when riding an ATV? – PembinaValleyOnline.com

The RCMP would like to remind all off-road vehicle owners what is and is not allowed to do with their machines.

Dennis Redikop is a community constable. He says when it comes to off-road vehicle laws, the rules also apply to ATVs, snowmobiles, dirt bikes, utility vehicles and side-by-sides.

Redikop says all off-road vehicles must be registered and insured, which can be done at any Autopac dealership or at the Manitoba Public Insurance service center.

He points out that off-road vehicles may only drive in ditches, on field tracks or on crown land where these machines are permitted.

“We see a lot of off-road vehicles on roads, gravel paths, even in the city,” says Redikop. “That's actually not allowed.”

Redikop explains that the law for off-road vehicles does not allow these machines to drive on gravel roads. And he says there is a lot of misunderstanding here, as many drivers believe they have permission to drive on gravel roads.

“And if they want to get to the hiking trails, they have to hook them up and have them transported,” says Redikop, pointing out that you can’t drive your off-road vehicle from the driveway to the hiking trail.

Another rule is that an approved helmet must always be worn. Redikop says there are some exceptions. For example, if you are driving a side-by-side that is equipped with rollover protection and seat belts, Redikop says the seat belts must be worn but a helmet is not required.

“But you know what, it’s always good practice,” he says.

Some of Manitoba's off-road vehicle laws are age-based. Redikop says children under 14 may only operate an off-road vehicle when accompanied and supervised by a parent or person authorized by a parent who is at least 18 years old. These drivers may only operate in ditches and not on roads, shoulders or sidewalks.

Redikop says Manitoba residents who are 14 years or older and do not have a valid driver's license, or who are 15.5 years old and have a valid learner-level license, are allowed to drive an all-terrain vehicle without supervision. These drivers are allowed to drive in ditches, but not on roads, shoulders or sidewalks.

Redikop says Manitoba residents who are 16 years or older and have a valid intermediate or higher driver's license can drive an all-terrain vehicle in ditches and, where permitted, on Crown land or trails. They can also cross a road at or within five metres of an intersection.

And finally, Redikop says you shouldn't ride with a passenger unless your SUV is specifically designed to carry more than one person. He asks drivers to be considerate of anyone they encounter and to stay on the right. And he points out that drunk driving laws also apply to all motorized vehicles, including SUVs.