Safety is the responsibility of every off-road vehicle user, as well as the collective effort of those who enforce and uphold the legislation. The Provincial Government recognizes the value of outdoor activities, and the use of off-road vehicles as a mode of transportation, but safety remains a priority.
Changes to the Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations are designed to improve off-road vehicle safety and provide safer experiences for off-road vehicle enthusiasts throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
What is an off-road vehicle?
An off-road vehicle includes any motor vehicle designed or adapted for off-road use. These include: all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles, amphibious vehicles, utility vehicles, side-by-sides, dune buggies and dirt bikes.
Safety features and equipment
- Helmets are mandatory for all off-road vehicles and in all areas of the province.
- All operators and passengers are required to wear a helmet that meets the safety standards in the Regulations, is properly fitted, and has the fastening device secured. The only exception where helmets are not required is for hunting and trapping activities, involving frequent stops, where speed is less than 20 km/hr.
- Seatbelts must be worn in any off-road vehicle where they have been installed by the manufacturer.
- Chains are permitted on tires of an off-road vehicle.
- A person must not operate a mini-bike, dirt bike, or trail bike unless they are able to keep both feet on the pedals or foot rests.
- A person must not operate a side-by-side unless they are able to sit with the seatbelt fastened and both feet flat on the floor.
Age requirements and supervision
Off-Road Vehicle
- Anyone under age 16 must not operate an off-road vehicle with an engine size that exceeds the manufacturer’s recommendation for an operator of their age and weight.
- Anyone under age 16 must be supervised by a licenced driver who is at least 18 years of age.
- The supervisor must be able to see the operator, be seen by the operator, and provide immediate direction to the operator at all times.
- The supervisor must ensure the operator uses the required safety equipment.
Fines
- A general increase of fines from $100 to $2,500
- Fines are no longer differentiated by type of off-road vehicle
- Fines are increased for offences related to operating on a highway and helmet use
- New fines have been added
Fees – https://www.gov.nl.ca/motorregistration/forms-and-fees/
Traffic rules
- Operators are permitted to cross a highway where the operator has up to 150 meters of visibility in both directions.
- Operators are also permitted to travel along the shoulder of the highway to access a trail, for a maximum distance of 1 km at a speed of no more than 20 km/hr.
Registration and insurance
- Off-road vehicles must be registered. The registration does not expire and is valid for as long as you own your vehicle.
- To register an off-road vehicle see: How To Register an Off-Road Vehicle
- You must have insurance if you cross or travel along a highway. Proof of insurance may be requested by law enforcement.
- If you sell your off-road vehicle, you must notify Motor Registration within 10 days.
News
- Public Advisory: Helmets and Seatbelts Mandatory for Off-Road Vehicles as of May 19
- Helmet and Seatbelt Regulations Coming for Off-Road Vehicle Use
- Residents Reminded to Practice Off-road Vehicle Safety
- New Legislation Increases Safety for Off-Road Vehicle Users
Legislation
Helpful links:
- Safety NL
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) Off-road Vehicles
- Parachute – All-terrain vehicles
- RCMP launches enhanced ATV enforcement and new social media campaign in response to high number of deaths
- RCMP launches Phase 2 of ATV safety campaign: Ride safe, ride sober and wear the gear!