Driving Rules for an Off-Road Vehicle in BC
Off-road vehicles (ORV) are popular in British Columbia. But like all vehicles, there are regulations for when, where, and how you can operate an ORV. Drivers of ORVs who break the rules are putting themselves and others at risk.
Did you suffer injuries in an ORV or ATV accident in BC? The Vancouver personal injury lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP can evaluate your case and explain your legal options for compensation. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
What is an Off-Road Vehicle?
Off-road vehicles include a wide range of vehicles used for both work and recreation.
Under British Columbia’s Off-Road Vehicle Act, the following are considered off-road vehicles:
- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), sometimes called “quads”
- Snowmobiles and other winter recreation vehicles
- Off-road motorcycles
- Side-by-sides, which are similar to ATVs and are sometimes called “razors,” “rhinos,” or “argos”
- Some on-highway motor vehicles like SUVs, pickup trucks, and Jeeps
- Golf carts
Registering Your Off-Road Vehicle with ICBC
According to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), a registration with a number plate display is mandatory to operate an ORV on Crown land. The registration requirements for ORVs depend on the vehicle’s age, when it was purchased, and where it was purchased.
The following registration requirements apply to ORVs bought after Nov. 17, 2014:
- If you buy a new ORV in British Columbia, you must have a New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS) or Certificate of Origin and a completed transfer/tax form signed by the seller. You need form APV9T, which you can find online.
- If you buy a new ORV anywhere in Canada outside of British Columbia, you must have an NVIS or Certificate of Origin and a bill of sale from the dealer showing that the ORV was purchased new, the vehicle details match the APV9T form, and the details of the taxes paid on the vehicle.
- If you buy a new ORV in the United States, you need an NVIS or Certificate of Origin, a stamped vehicle import form subject to the federal Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) requirements, a bill of sale from the dealer, and a title certificate. You must also have an original version of a Casual Goods Accounting Document, a Canada Customs Coding form, or a Personal Effects Accounting Document. You can find more information on these forms from the Canada Border Services Agency.
You can find the registration requirements for used ORVs or new ORVs purchased before Nov. 17, 2014 on the ICBC website. Finally, you must pay a one-time $48 fee to register your ORV.
Safety Requirements for Driving an Off-Road Vehicle
Individuals operating ORVs on public land must obey the following laws:
- The ORV must be registered with ICBC.
- Drivers cannot operate an ORV in a careless or negligent manner that endangers people or property.
- Approved safety helmets are mandatory for all drivers and passengers, with religious exceptions for Sikhs.
- Seat belt use is required for off-road side-by-side vehicles.
- Drivers over 12 must carry photo identification.
- Child riders must be watched by a qualified supervising adult, except for those over 14 who have written permission from a parent or guardian.
- Children can ride if they meet the manufacturer’s minimum age and weight requirements.
- A child cannot drive with a passenger.
- Driving an ORV is prohibited from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise, or in any poorly lit or unfavorable conditions.
- The ORV must have lights, reflectors, or other illuminating devices. Bicycle lights can be affixed to vehicles that don’t have manufacturer-installed lights.
Where Can You Ride an ORV?
You can ride an ORV on most Crown land. You can find a list of trails on the Recreation Sites and Trails BC website. You may drive an ORV on private property only if you have the property owner’s permission and follow all applicable laws.
Insurance Requirements for ORVs
For most people, off-road vehicle insurance is mandatory in BC. To drive an ORV on standard roads in British Columbia, you must purchase ICBC Basic Autoplan insurance. To use an ORV on forest service roads, you must also carry at least $200,000 in third-party liability insurance.
Dangers of Operating an ORV
Off-road vehicles are dangerous compared to cars or trucks intended for road use because they have fewer safety features. Not all ORVs have seat belts, and most ORVs are not enclosed, leaving riders vulnerable in a crash.
Despite their smaller size, ORVs can have powerful engines and accelerate much faster than cars. A sudden burst of speed can make them more challenging to control. Get to know your off-road vehicle by practicing riding in a confined space before hitting the trails.
Unfortunately, dangerous drivers can also make ORVs unsafe. Alcohol and drug use is one of the most common causes of ATV accident deaths across all provinces in Canada.
You could be entitled to compensation if someone else’s negligence led to an ORV, ATV, or UTV accident. Ask an experienced ATV accident lawyer to review your case and identify potential sources of compensation for you.
Staying Safe While Driving an ORV
Here are a few tips for staying safe while operating an ORV:
- Stick to designated trails.
- Wear a helmet and other safety gear.
- Never overload an ORV with too many passengers.
- Wear a seat belt, if available.
- Do not operate an ORV while intoxicated.
- Avoid driving on paved roads unless your vehicle is equipped for on-road use.
Causes of ORV Accidents
Some of the most common causes of ORV accidents include the following:
- Driver impairment
- Aggressive driving
- Intersection accidents
- Overloaded ORVs
Consult an ATV and Off-Road Vehicle Lawyer for Help With Your Case
Off-road vehicle accidents can cause severe injuries, and insurance may not be enough to cover all your losses. If you suffered injuries in an ORV accident in British Columbia, contact the ATV and off-road vehicle lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP today for a free consultation.
