Law-breaking ATV riders can expect a visit from officers in King

YorkRegion.com
July 21, 2016
Tim Kelly

King Township off-road riders are being told to keep strictly off the road.

Numerous complaints from the public that ATV and dirt bikers are riding on local roads, trails and sidewalks have prompted a reminder from the township and police such vehicles aren’t permitted on public access roadways.

In a press release issued by the township and York Regional Police, it’s pointed out off-road vehicles are “permitted only on private property”.

That means pocket bikes, dirt bikes, mini bikes, ATVs, motorized scooters, power-assisted bicycles and Segway scooters are not permitted either on public roadways or sidewalks.

“Residents have complained ATV and dirt-bike drivers are using roadways and sidewalks to access open areas popular with riders,” said Nancy Cronsberry, King Township’s manager of bylaw enforcement.

“Complaints have included pedestrians being forced off sidewalks to avoid being struck by careless riders, running stop signs at high speeds and making U-turns in front of oncoming traffic. Parents are concerned about the safety of their children.”

Nobleton Councillor David Boyd said he’s heard numerous complaints from residents and said they’ve had enough.

“I think it’s irresponsible, it’s a nuisance to people. Operators of ATVs are driving erratically, they don’t always wear helmets, I’ve heard of them on skateparks; they’re disrespecting the town, they’re in our ball diamonds, they’re in our parks, they’re ripping up our grass, they’re on our trails and the parents of the ATV owners have to give their heads a shake,” said Boyd.

He said bylaw officers and police officers are going to take action.

“Our officers are going to be spending time on this; a number of these households have been identified by address so the police will be going to talk to the parents of the ATV owners with our bylaw officers to let them know how serious of an offence this is and that charges can be laid against the ATV operator and, in some circumstances, against the parents, as well.”

As a volunteer firefighter with the King Township department and as a full-time firefighter in Toronto he has seen the results of reckless ATV riding.

Anybody found operating an off-road vehicle on a public roadway and not complying with the law could face charges. The vehicle may be impounded and fines may be as high as $5,000. Parents of children riding vehicles unsupervised can also be charged.