Northern Rednecks ATV Club
Safety Information & Rules

Riding 2 Up

Can you ride with two People on an ATV?

The manufacturers recommend that most ATV's be ridden by one person only, with no passengers. The reason for this is that an ATV handles differently, has different weight distribution, and a different centre of gravity when a passenger is riding behind the driver. There is also a possibility of the passenger interfering with the driver. The only exception to their recommendation is machines which are designed to accommodate more than one person. They are still not allowed on any roadways, see reference in bill 11 section.

But the manufacturers produce seats that attach to the back rack of my ATV, can I ride double if I have one of these?

These seats are not made by the manufacturers of ATV's, but are instead produced by after-market vendors. There is the strong manufacturer recommendation that an ATV designated for a single person is used by a single person.

2-Up Riding - Where Does the OFATV Stand?

With regard to 2-up riding, it is not the OFATV who makes the rules of the road. We may not agree with them but we do have to respect them. As far as riding on an OFATV trail - you are welcome to ride - it is only on actual road access that the rules of the road apply and the OFATV has no say in the matter. We are working on having this changed, but this type of process takes a long time. We were actually instrumental in the introduction of Bill 11 in 1999 and only today are we finally seeing municipalities passing by-laws allowing road access. We have worked VERY hard for all ATV riders in Ontario - not just our members! There have been some wonderful advancements but only through membership dollars and volunteer support will this continue to happen.

Will there ever be a touring model ATV, like there is in snowmobiling?

Bombardier has developed a machine called the 'Traxter Max" which is capable for two person use. Arctic Cat has also produced a two up machine, though neither currently qualifies for road access (see changes to ORV Act or bill 11).

Riding the Roads

What are the riding requirements in Ontario?

To legally ride off your own property you require proof of third party liability insurance coverage, your ATV has to be plated and registered, and you must wear a helmet. Though not mandatory, the OFATV recommends that you wear long sleeves and pant legs, gloves, eye goggles, and sturdy footwear. For maximum protection, ATV specific safety gear can be purchased.

ATVs must have the appropriate equipment (e.g.: head lights, tail lights, working brakes and brake lights, reflectors, low-pressure bearing tires)

Width and weight restrictions appropriate to type of vehicle

You must be twelve years of age or older to ride an ATV alone in Ontario, though adult supervision is always recommended.


What is Bill 11?

Bill 11, the Red Tape Reduction Act 1999, contains changes that will affect the Highway Traffic Act, allowing for increased road access for ATV use. Essentially it will authorize municipalities to pass by-laws permitting ATV use on roads and highways under their jurisdiction. This will prove to be a major and necessary part in our evolution, allowing clubs to link trails and access important amenities such as fuel, lodging, repairs and restaurants. These changes will have an even greater impact in areas of higher private or agricultural land, allowing clubs to circumvent 'bottlenecks' and link sections of the trail.

Please refer to the ORV Act Changes page for details.

How Does the Introduction of ORV Regulation 316/03 affect ATV's?

The Off Road Vehicles Act primarily governs ATV usage in Ontario. You can find this act online at www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca. After accessing the site click on the 'legislation' tab, and then on 'E-laws- statutes and regulations of Ontario'. You can then search that site for the ORVA.

Off-road vehicles (ORVs) now have more access to the shoulder and paved portions of some Ontario highways. These new regulations, effective July 31, 2003, apply to one category of ORV only. This particular “all-terrain vehicle” (ATV) is defined as an off-road vehicle that:

• four wheels, the tires of which are all in contact with the ground
• steering handlebars
• a seat that is designed to be straddled by the driver
• Meets requirements of federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act (MVSA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI standard)

Is designed to carry a driver only and no passengers.

New regulations do not apply to other types of off-road vehicles such as mini bikes, dirt bikes and moto-cross bikes, nor to all other categories of ATVs, including three-wheelers, dune buggies, snowmobiles and amphibious vehicles.
Where Can ATV's Travel?

• Prohibited from 400 series highways, Trans Canada Highway
• Access to highways 500 to 899, 7000 series and Summer Average Daily Traffic (SADT) less than 5,000. Specific highways are defined in the regulation schedules
• ATV’s can operate on the shoulder; move to traveled portion of highway if shoulder is impassable/unsafe
• Speed limit lower than posted limits (same as snowmobiles)
• 20 km/h - highways where speed limit is 50 km/h or less
• 50 km/h – highways where speed limit is over 50 km/h
• Not allowed on rights-of way (e.g.: medians) between opposing lanes of traffic
• Riders must operate their ATV’s in the same direction of traffic
• Cannot operate in a construction zone, on a closed highway or within a provincial park unless allowed by the park
• Municipalities may pass by-laws to decide if, where and when off-road vehicles can be used on local roads.
• No Passing other vehicles.

What are the Rules of the Road?

• ATV operators must observe a speed limit lower than posted limits, same as for snowmobiles
• Passengers are not allowed
• May tow un-occupied trailers
• Driver’s view in all directions must not be obstructed, including when towing trailers.
• It is against the law to drive an off-road vehicle when impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Safety Tips

Accidents can and will happen. Be considerate and travel safely. Treat other trail users as a friend regardless of how they treat you.

• Drinking and ATVing don't mix
• Carry maps and emergency supplies
• Always wear your helmet and eye protection
• Let someone know where your heading and never ride alone
• Always carry a pocket knife and water proof matches
• Take it easy.
• Life is fast enough, enjoy the scenery
• Know your limitations and your ATV's limitations
• Respect other trail users and always give way to non-motorized users
• Respect the laws in place to protect you from yourself & others
• Trail Ride with minimum impact
• Stay on the trails
• Minimize wheel spin
• Avoid roosting corners
• Avoid soft bottom rivers and streams
• Traverse water crossings slowly and at a 90 degree angle
• Always pack out what you pack in
• Stay off private land