The Saint John Police, in partnership with Justice and Public Safety New Brunswick, will be conducting an off-road vehicle education and enforcement campaign between June 24-26, 2022. The focus of the campaign will be to promote safe riding of off-road vehicles through education and enforcement.

During the campaign, SJPF and JPS officers will engage with all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders in the community to promote the importance of safe riding habits, proper clothing and protective gear, and mechanically safe vehicles.

According to Statistics Canada, from 2013-2019:

• Alcohol/drug use was reported in 51% of ATV driver fatalities.

• Road conditions, such as a dangerous surface, a slope or a curve, were reported in 33% of ATV fatalities.
• Not wearing a helmet/not safely wearing a helmet was reported in 33% of ATV fatalities

What is the law in New Brunswick?

Insurance:

• All-terrain vehicles must be insured unless operated only on the owner’s property.
• Insurance is mandatory for all off-road vehicles operating on trails and recommended for dirt bikes and dune buggies.
• Operators must carry proof of insurance.

Registration:

• All off-road vehicles must be registered each year and display a valid licence plate.
• Operators must carry proof of registration.

Trail Passes:

• All-terrain vehicles using New Brunswick-managed trails pass must be permanently attached and clearly visible.

Safety Equipment:

• All operators and passengers of any off-road vehicle are required to wear a helmet that complies with standards prescribed under the motor vehicle act.
• Off-road vehicles must be equipped with at least one working headlight, a red taillight and a red brake light.
• Operators are prohibited from driving off-road vehicles that cause excessive or unusual noise.

Age Requirements:

• Snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle operators under the age of 16 are required to take an approved safety training course.
• All operators under 16 years of age must:

• Complete an approved safety training course

• Be supervised in clear view of someone who is at least 19 years old.
• There are ATV size restrictions for operators under 16

For more information and complete list of legal requirements, please visit Off-Road Vehicle Requirements (gnb.ca)

Together a safe, secure, healthy community