Off-highway vehicle safety urged for back-to-school season
STATEWIDE, N.D. – As the new school year begins, Vision Zero is urging drivers and families to make safety a top priority – especially for students traveling on off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in rural areas. With many young riders using OHVs to get to school, everyone on the road plays a role in preventing crashes and injuries.
Safety Tips for Drivers:
- Stay Alert: Expect to see student OHV riders before and after school, especially on rural roads and near school zones.
- Slow Down: Lower speeds give you more time to react.
- Give Space: OHVs handle differently than cars – keep a safe following distance.
- Share the Road: Treat OHVs with the same caution and respect as other vehicles.
Safety Tips for Student Riders:
- Wear a Helmet: Required by law for riders under 18 and essential for preventing head injuries.
- Ride the Right Size: Choose an OHV suited to your age, size and skill level.
- No Passengers: Unless the OHV is equipped for passengers, ride solo.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Stop at signs, follow signals and yield to pedestrians.
- Be Seen: Wear bright clothing and use working lights.
- Buckle Up: In utility task vehicles, the law requires all occupants to wear a seat belt.
Families should check helmets, inspect OHVs and talk about safe riding habits. Schools and communities can reinforce these messages to help students make smart choices on the road.
This message is part of the Vision Zero strategy to eliminate motor vehicle crash fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roads.
Visit the North Dakota Crash Memorial Wall to view memorials built on the hope of preventing another death on North Dakota roads.