As we roll into summer we are beginning to see a steady increase in Off Highway Recreational Vehicle (O.H.R.V.) and All Terrain Vehicle (A.T.V.) use. There are some things to consider before hitting the trails.
Fish and Game strongly recommends that all operators complete a Safety Education Class. The class is a requirement for operators 12 years or older that do not hold a valid motor vehicle license. For more information about attending a class contact Fish and Game 603-271-3129 or go to www.ride.nh.gov for class schedules. Remember, all riders under the age of 18 MUST wear helmets at all times.
Every year hundreds of people are injured in OHRV or snowmobile crashes. Approximately 35% had some level of alcohol in their blood. Excessive speed was a contributing factor in 55% of the fatal crashes. Accidents can be avoided by practicing safe and responsible operation. Accidents must be reported if someone is injured or killed, or property damage is over $500.00. If an accident occurs that requires someone to report it they must, stop and give name, address and registration number to the others involved. Report the accident to the nearest Police Station, and File a report to Fish and Game within 5 days.
You can ride on trails that are designated for the type of vehicle you are operating or where you have received written permission from the landowner. Landowners are NOT required to post their land against OHRV use. The absence of signs prohibiting use does not mean O.H.R.V use is welcome or allowed. Landowners are not responsible to keep their land safe for use by O.H.R.V. operators. Unless you are on an approved trail system or have landowner permission you are in violation of the law. Remember, all land public or private, requires landowner permission. It is Illegal to operate an O.H.R.V. upon a public way in this State unless posted for use by the Town for O.H.R.V. use.
It is illegal to operate an O.H.R.V. while under the influence of alcohol and or drugs, or with a blood alcohol concentration of greater than 0.08% or 0.02% if under 21 years of age. Penalties for O.H.R.V. DWI correspond with the Motor Vehicle DWI laws. O.H.R.V. operators must submit to a test or tests to determine blood alcohol concentration. Failure to consent to a test results in the loss of a driver’s license.
O.H.R.V’s that are driven off the owner’s property must be registered and registration stickers must be properly placed on the vehicles. O.H.R.V.’s can be registered at the Town Clerks Office during regular business hours.
Speed shall be reasonable and prudent for the existing conditions.
10 MPH upon public ways open to OHRV use
35 MPH on all trail connectors
45 MPH on all trails where no speed limit is posted.
Finally, It is unlawful to have or carry a loaded gun, etc., in or on a vehicle, pursuant to RSA 207:7.
If you would like more information concerning OHRV use and operation requirements please contact us at 938-2522 or New Hampshire Fish and Game 271-4300 or visit their website.
The staff at the Bradford Police Department hopes everybody has a safe and fun summer!