Manitoba RCMP knows the weather is warming up and more off-road vehicles (ORVs) are certainly to be out and about. They are urging drivers to remember the following laws:

  • Anyone under the age of 14 must have direct supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is a minimum of 18 years of age. Youth over the age of 14 can ride without parental supervision, but cannot cross a roadway until they obtain a valid driver's licence.
  • All ORV operators and riders must wear properly fastened safety helmets unless the vehicle is equipped with rollover protection and the occupants are wearing securely fastened seat belts.
  • ORVs are not to be operated on roadways, shoulders, medians of divided roadways, or sidewalks
  • ORVs are permitted to be in the ditch, provided travel is in the same direction as vehicle traffic, the ORV is to the right of the roadway and the shoulder, and the ORV is being operated in an area where ORV use is permitted. Always remember to be on the lookout for hazards in the ditch, such as culverts, driveway approaches, and road signs
  • No riding:
    • On privately owned or leased land without permission
    • Within 30 metres of a dwelling that is not yours between midnight and 7:00 am
    • Within 30 metres of a playground or area set aside for recreation that is not fully fenced
    • In a careless manner
    • Without reasonable consideration for other persons and property
  • When conditions are dry, use caution as sparks from an ORV can ignite grass and branches, starting a fire
  • Be aware of local bylaws in the area you are riding
  • Impaired driving laws apply to ALL motorized vehicles. Only operate an ORV when sober and alert

There were 8 fatal collisions in Manitoba involving ORVs in 2021, with 58 collisions resulting in a serious injury. The most common factors included speed, no helmet, and impaired driving.