It could take municipalities some time to update their local ATV bylaws. That comment comes from the OPP, who is talking about the new legislation that lets off road vehicles on provincial highway shoulders.
They are reminding drivers to take note of their local bylaws.
“It is the operator’s responsibility to consult the Highway Traffic Act and to contact the municipality to confirm certain off-road vehicles are permitted on area roadways,” says North East Region Traffic Inspector Mark Andrews. “It could take some time for municipalities to review the new Provincial legislation and to figure out how it fits with their individual needs.”
“We often stop operators who are not wearing an approved and properly fastened helmet, or who are not 16 years of age,” states Inspector Andrews. “When you don’t wear a helmet, you are at a much higher risk of serious injury or death in the event of an ORV incident. Knowing the laws and operating your ORV in a safe manner are the first steps to making your ORV experience a positive one.”
Here in Timmins, the bylaw hasn’t been changed to let ATV’s on city roads. That may change, as council has been talking about it, but as of now they aren’t allowed.