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Course Outline

ATVs and some other OHVs are designed exclusively for off-road use. They can be difficult to handle on paved surfaces. Riding on or crossing a road illegally or improperly is a leading cause of fatalities. If you must cross a road, follow this safe procedure.

  • Pick a crossing point where you have good visibility in both directions.
  • Bring your vehicle to a complete stop on the shoulder of the road.
  • Look both ways, and yield to oncoming traffic.
  • Drive forward slowly because your vehicle may be difficult to maneuver on pavement.
  • Drive straight across the road.
  • When crossing in a group, have one rider dismount and act as a crossing guard until everyone else has passed safely.
  • Stand up to give yourself maximum visibility.
  • Remember that approaching automobile drivers are not expecting, or looking for, OHV riders.

Legal Operation

OHVs are designed for off-road use. Cars are designed to be driven primarily on paved surfaces. OHVs can be operated on roads and highways if they are street legal. This means the OHV has:

  • Brakes
  • Horn
  • Lights (head, tail, brake, and license plate lights)
  • Muffler
  • Rearview mirror
  • Seat and footrest for operator and passenger
  • Windshield or other eye protection
Man riding an ATV
Car on road
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