Off-road vehicles (ORVs) are four-wheel vehicles that are designed for use on rough terrain. These include all- terrain vehicles (ATVs)—also called four-wheelers or quads—and utility task vehicles (UTVs)—also called side-by-sides or dune buggies. ATVs have four low-pressure or airless tires, steering handlebars and a seat designed to be straddled by the driver. UTVs are similar but have a minimum of two seats positioned side by side enclosed within a roll cage structure and are operated by foot controls and a steering wheel. These vehicles are becoming faster and heavier, and they should be treated with similar considerations to the cars that are driven on the road. This means that you should similarly receive proper education and training on how to safely operate an ORV, never taking more passengers than the ORV is designed for and only driving in areas meant for ORVs.
Most ORV-related deaths occur due to a roll-over or flip, and half of ORV-related deaths involve alcohol or drugs. Common injuries caused by ORVs include traumatic brain injuries, solid organ injuries (such as injuries to the liver or spleen) and limb fractures. Children and youth are at a greater risk to ORV-related injuries, as they may not have the strength, knowledge, and skill to safely operate an ORV, especially when driving an adult-sized vehicle. Children and youth not wearing a helmet are also five times more likely to experience a severe head or neck injury if injured on an ORV.
Safety gear
Before operating an ORV, always wear the required protective equipment. All equipment should fit the rider properly and be in good working condition.
Safety gear for ORVs includes:
- A helmet that meets the standards required for motorcycles. Helmets designed for other activities, such as bicycle and hockey helmets, are not designed to protect ORV riders.
- Eye protection, such as googles or a face shield/visor.
- Gloves, boots, long-sleeve shirts and pants, which can protect from burns, scrapes and cuts.
Age limits
Talk to your child(ren) about the responsibilities that come with driving an ORV. These are vehicles, not toys, and should be treated with caution. Each province has their own regulations; however, the Canadian Paediatric Society recommends that drivers of ORVs should be at least 16 years of age. Children younger than 16 years of age do not possess the necessary skills or mental maturity to safely handle ORVs of any size. There is a lack of evidence showing that youth-sized ORVs prevent injuries in drivers under 16 years of age.
Children and youth should always be supervised by an adult when operating ORVs.
Children that are around ORVs regularly, such as in rural and remote communities, should be taught about ORV safety as a passenger and a pedestrian. Talk to your child(ren) about ORV safety gear, passenger limits, avoiding paved and compacted roads, and the importance of respecting age recommendations for drivers. Enrolling them in an ORV safety course can also help provide additional information that is age appropriate.
Passenger limits
ORVS must be used how they are designed. This includes never exceeding the number of passengers that the ORV is designed to carry. When passenger limits are exceeded, there is an increased risk for tipping or having passengers ejected from the ORV.
Driving habits
While driving an ORV, be mindful of speed. Increased speed can lead to more serious injuries in the event of a fall, collision or roll. Younger riders should not use ORVs that have high speeds. Certain ORVs can have a maximum speed limit set to prevent high speeds.
ORVs should also be properly sized to their driver. Drivers should be able to reach their foot pegs or peddles and handles or steering wheel and be able to sit down fully.
Drivers should never use alcohol or drugs before or during the operation of an ORV.
Provincial regulations
Each province in Canada has set their own regulations for helmet use and mandatory ORV training courses. A full list of provincial regulations can be found in Parachute’s ATV Legislation Chart.
While many provincial regulations are only applicable on public land, it is important to remember that the risks associated with ORVs exist on private land as well. Safety measures—such as the use of helmets, respecting age limits on drivers, and following passenger limits—should always be considered.