Ontario Provincial Police say the last four months of the year are the deadliest when it comes to off-road vehicle accidents.
They are putting the word out about safety as the fall season approaches.
In 2023, half of the off-road vehicle (ORV) fatalities in OPP jurisdictions occurred during the end of the year, police said in a release.
The OPP investigated 26 ORV fatalities in 2023, in which 13 occurred between September and December.
Lack of a helmet, alcohol and/or drug consumption, and losing control of the vehicle remain the leading factors in these deaths, police said.
The OPP noted it is responsible for patrolling more than 99,000 km of waterways and trails, and over 130,000 km of roadway throughout Ontario.
Police offered the following tips as best preparation for enjoyable and legal riding:
- Driving an ORV while impaired by alcohol or drugs is as unlawful as driving any other vehicle and carries the same impaired driving penalties that apply to driving a motor vehicle.
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet with a secure chin strap. ORV drivers and passengers who do not wear their helmets are at a much higher risk of serious injury or death if they crash, lose control, or their vehicle tips over.
- Always carry your registration and proof of insurance.
- Ensure proper display of licence plate according to the ORVA.
- Have a valid trail pass where applicable.
- Exercise caution when riding on permitted roadways, adjusting to the difference between dirt and pavement.
- Drive cautiously and familiarize yourself with the required speeds for ORVs.
"The Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicles is a great resource," the OPP said.
See this link for more information and safety tips: Tips for the Riders | OFATV - Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicle Clubs.