Dirt bike, ATV riders urged to follow the law, keep the riding off road in designated areas
It’s getting to be that time of year again when dirt bike and ATV (all-terrain vehicle) riders head out to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. In doing so though, a reminder, riding your dirt bike or ATV on the streets is not legal as they are designated “Off road use only” vehicles.
They are not designed to be operated on paved surfaces and excessive speed combined with careless maneuvering could lead to a crash. Add to this the fact that you are putting yourself into a position where you will be sharing the roadway with much larger and heavier vehicles that may have difficulty in seeing you, increases the potential for disaster.
For parents who have purchased dirt bikes and ATVs for your children, make sure that they are educated in the safe operation of these machines as well as knowing when and where they are riding and how they are getting there. They should not be riding on the streets and highways in order to get to open space trails and riding areas.
When riding, respect the private property notifications that may be posted in some areas. If you need to go through a gate to continue on, be sure to close it behind you. These gates are in place to keep livestock and wild horses contained in a safe area.
Some areas and trails are clearly marked not to be traveled on by motorized vehicles as they are reserved for hiking, biking and equestrian (horseback riding) use. Although you may not agree with the restrictions, destroying property so that you can access the trails is not only disrespectful to those who use the area but, illegal as well.
Just as a motorist must share the roadway with many others, you the recreational dirt bike and ATV rider must share some areas with hikers, runners, rock climbers, etc. When riding pay attention and respect the space of those around you.
— Sgt. Scott McDaniel is with the Carson City Sheriff’s Office and writes regular public safety columns. He can be reached at smcdaniel@carson.org