ATV Safety Information

ATV and side by side manufacturers are opposed to on-road use to protect the safety of the riders. Gary Nolan, Morristown Select Board member and VASA Treasurer, has confirmed that VASA is opposed to on-road use. Let’s have the public safety and law enforcement conversation.

Vermont State Police and Lamoille County Sheriff policies are to not pursue ATVs in violation of traffic laws because pursuit often ends with accident and/or injury to ATV riders. In Highgate, law enforcement officials and the select board are frustrated and feeling without recourse to safely enforce traffic laws. Johnson Selectboard Chair Eric Osgood said that “[he knows] enforcement isn’t happening.”

The Consumer Federation of America submitted the following  letter directly to the Morristown, VT Selectboard on 4/16/2021. 

  • The Consumer Federation of America statement begins: In spite of warnings from manufacturers, federal agencies, and consumer and safety advocates that all terrain vehicles (ATVs) are unsafe on roadways, for several years an increasing number of states have passed laws allowing ATVs on public roads. The majority of ATV deaths take place on these roads and action is needed to reverse this dangerous trend.
  • The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America is the national not-for-profit trade association representing manufacturers and distributors of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in the United States. Their report states that: ATVs are designed, manufactured and sold for off-road use only. Permitting on-road use of ATVs, including modified ATVs, would be in conflict with manufacturers' intentions for their proper use and would be contrary to federal safety requirements.
  • ATV Safety Institute Riding Tips: 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.
  • ATVMan Safety Guide: Don't ride on paved roads. ATVs are designed to be driven off road. Because they are not designed for use on smoother surfaces like paved roads, you will face more difficulty controlling an ATV, especially at high speeds, when driving on a paved road.  
  • KidsHealth: Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads (except to cross them).
  • ATV Safety Basics: Stay off the street. ATVs are typically licensed for “off-highway” use and are not safe or designed to be driven on certain pavements.