State and Local Police will Issue
Citations to Offenders
Indiana, PA (October 21) – The use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) is becoming more and more popular throughout the Commonwealth. These vehicles are manufactured and designed for a variety of different uses from agriculture to professional sports racing. They are also available in many different horse powers (hp) ranging from 5 to 49 (hp) and can reach speeds in excess of 65 miles-per-hour. When ridden safely, ATVs can be a valuable tool to farmers or provide hours of recreation for people of all ages.
When ATVs are misused or safety rules or laws are broken, however, the results can be tragic. Last year in Pennsylvania (public highways only), ATV crashes injured 241 operators and tragically claimed the lives of 20. Many of these injuries and deaths could have been avoided if operators would have followed State and local laws and the safe riding recommendations of ATV manufacturers.
2004 District 10 Public Road ATV Crashes
Crashes ATV Fatalities ATV Injuries
Armstrong 3 0 3
Butler 2 0 4
Clarion 2 1 2
Indiana 3 0 3
Jefferson 3 0 4
Crashes involving ATVs on trails and such are not included. The above number of deaths and injuries only include the ATV riders, not anyone else who might have been involved.
PennDOT offers these facts and safety tips to make your ride safer:
- Know the rules and regulations. The rules and regulations regarding ATVs are found in Title 75 of the PA Vehicle Code, Chapter 77 (http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/vehicle_code/index.shtml). The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) regulates the title, registration and assists enforcement of ATVs laws. For more information and complete rules and regulations, please visit DCNR web site at http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/atv/.
- ATVs are illegal to operate on State and local roadways. ATVs may be operated only on streets and highways designated and posted as an ATV road by the government agency having jurisdiction over the road. ATVs are classified as motor vehicles by the State's Vehicle Code, which require registration, license plates and inspection. However, ATVs cannot pass a safety inspection because they lack basic safety features that are designed to protect the operator. The driver must also have a valid driver's license to operate any vehicle on a public road.
- ATVs may make a direct crossing of a street or two-lane highway if:
- the crossing is made at an angle 90 degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place where no obstructions prevent a quick and safe crossing
- the ATV is brought to a complete stop before crossing the highway
- the driver yields the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic that constitutes an immediate hazard
- the crossing of a divided highway is made at an intersection of that highway with another street or highway
- ATVs may be operated on streets or highways during periods of emergency if declared by the jurisdiction, or when necessary to cross a bridge or culvert.
- You must stop when signaled by a law enforcement officer. Failure to do so could result in citations, fines and loss of your registration. (Fleeing or attempting to elude police)
- Don't use alcohol when operating any vehicle
- Use common sense when riding
- Follow the dealer's recommendations about safe riding and maintenance of your ATV
- Take an approved ATV safety course
The warm weather provides many opportunities to enjoy riding your ATV in the great outdoors. Make safety your top priority and enjoy a great Pennsylvania summer season.
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