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All-terrain vehicles are a fun way to get around in Saskatchewan, but the RCMP said ATVs can be dangerous if they’re used incorrectly.
Police in Saskatchewan have responded to a number of fatal incidents involving ATVs in recent months. In July, a 15-year-old boy from the Buffalo River Dene Nation was killed in an ATV rollover on Highway 925. On the Labour Day weekend, two ATVs collided on Range Road 2044 near Arcola, leaving a 66-year-old man from Estevan dead.
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On Sept. 6, a 26-year-old ATV driver from the Pelican Lake First Nation was declared dead after a crash involving a road vehicle on the First Nation north of Spiritwood.
Cst. Michael Murray, of the Dillon RCMP detachment, said he has seen several serious ATV crashes during his time with the Mounties, including fatal crashes involving kids.
“How do we prevent tragedy like that in the future?” Murray said in a statement. “If there’s no behavioural change, it’s not if an accident is going to happen in the future, it’s when.”
The RCMP advised ATV users to always wear a helmet and protective eyewear when driving, and to adjust their speed to current weather and terrain conditions. ATV riders were also advised not to carry any passengers their vehicle is not equipped to handle, and to never ride after drinking or taking drugs.
“Check local bylaws before heading out – some municipalities prohibit driving ATVs on roads, ditches, and medians,” the RCMP added.
The Mounties also reminded the public about who can and can’t operate an all-terrain vehicle.
“Remember, to drive on public land, you must be 16 years of age and hold a valid driver’s license,” the RCMP explained.
“Youth between the ages of 12 and 15 can operate an ATV on public land and may cross roads if they have passed an approved ATV training course, or if they’re supervised by someone who has held a driver’s license continuously for the last 365 days. The supervising rider can be riding a different ATV or be on the same ATV as the youth.”
ATV users were also advised to use a ride plan, letting someone know where they plan to ride and when they expect to return.
