When you have a motorcycle or a car, you may understand that to safely and legally operate your vehicle, you must have a license. But when it comes to an ATV or other off-road vehicle, those are only for recreation, right? Wrong. The law requires training and licensing for off-road vehicles and their operators the same as for other types of motor vehicles. According to ARS 28-1178, there are few circumstances in which you may operate an off-road vehicle without an user indicia. These include:
You are participating in a special, one-time event
You are on private land the entire time the off-road vehicle is in operation
You are unloading or loading the vehicle only
If there is an emergency and it is allowed by law enforcement
If none of these situations apply to you, then you must have proper licensing, even if you’re just doing donuts in the desert.
How to Stay Safe from Off-Road Accidents
As an off-roader it’s up to you to keep yourself safe from an off-road accident. Some of the best ways you can keep yourself, your passengers and other people around you safe from harm include:
Only ride an ATV if you have received proper training from an accredited and certified program
Never ride above your skill level
Don’t enter areas you are unfamiliar with
Never ride your ATV on roadways or other areas not approved for ATVs
Wear proper safety gear, like goggles and a helmet, every time you ride, and make sure your passengers do as well
Only allow passengers on ATVs that are made for two people
What to Do if You’re Involved in an Off-Road Accident
If you’re injured in an off-road accident due to the reckless actions of another ATV rider or a motorist you should reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney. The Husband and Wife Law Team will do everything within our power to help you get compensation to cover the expenses for medical care, your personal suffering and more. For assistance understanding and asserting your rights, contact us for a free consultation with attorneys Alexis and Mark Breyer at the Breyer Law Offices.