ATV Safety

All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) are popular year-round vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts. Before riding, it is important to be aware of applicable laws.

Last year, 34 people died in ATV-related incidents in Ontario. This is the highest number of off-road vehicle deaths in more than a decade. Of those, 18 were not wearing helmets. Fifteen fatalities were attributed to drug or alcohol use.

Safe practices greatly increase the chances of both drivers and passengers returning home safely.

The Anishinabek Police Service would like to remind members of our communities of the following safety tips regarding their ATV use:

  • Get trained by a qualified ATV instructor and practice safe riding techniques at all times. The knowledge of proper techniques is crucial when maintaining control on hills, rough terrain and in turns.
  • Parents are encouraged to enrol young riders in Ontario’s online ATV Training Course for Youth.
  • Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
  • Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
  • Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
  • Learn about the area you will ride in. Get maps of the area, and stay on trails if they are provided.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Ride in a group of two or more.
  • Riders should never operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
  • Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
  • Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Registration: An ATV/ORV must be registered and display a license plate (except in exempt areas like far northern Ontario).
  • Insurance: Must be insured under a motor vehicle liability policy.
  • Driver must carry the ORV’s registration permit or a copy.
  • Can directly cross a highway only if: The vehicle is registered and displays a license plate, the vehicle is insured under a motor vehicle liability policy, and the driver is at least 16 years old and has a valid G2 driver’s license of any class.

  • Registration: An ATV/ORV must be registered and display a license plate (except in exempt areas like far northern Ontario).
  • Insurance: Must be insured under a motor vehicle liability policy.
  • Hold at least a valid G2 or M2 licence.
  • Travel at speeds less than the posted speed limit.
  • Helmet (fastened) for both driver and passenger.
  • Have all lights on while travelling on roads.
  • Travel in the same direction as traffic on the shoulder. If the shoulder is unsafe or too narrow, riding on the traveled portion of the road is permitted.
  • No passengers under 8 years of age.

Non-emergency driving concerns can be reported to police using our Online Reporting tool.