Posted on 07/23/2016, 1:00 pm, by mySteinbach

Since May of this year, four people have died and dozens of others have been seriously injured, including a 6-year-old boy, as a result of collisions involving ATVs in Manitoba.

Police say that while contributing factors to these fatalities vary from case to case, the unsafe decisions made by some of the riders remain constant in the vast majority of collisions. Contributing factors in these deaths included alcohol use, failure to wear a helmet and speed – all factors that could easily be avoided.

Below are some basic rules to keep in mind when heading out on an ATV:

  • The law requires that you always wear an approved helmet.
  • ATVs are not to be operated on roadways, shoulders or sidewalks unless circumstances fall under other provisions laid out in the Off Road Vehicles Act.
  • Like any other mode of transportation, only operate an ATV when sober and alert.
  • Anyone under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is a minimum of 18 years old.

RCMP advise riders to never underestimate the power of these machines, as a ride can turn deadly very quickly. Riders are reminded to be prepared at all times and obey the laws.