THUNDER BAY – LIVING – On Thursday, November 8, 2018, officers from the Thunder Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), conservation officers from Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF), and Ministry of Transportation (MTO) will join together to provide Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) and Motorized Snow Vehicle (MSV) safety information to the public.
Where: Canadian Tire – 1221 Arthur Street W. Thunder Bay
When: Thursday, November 8, 2018 – 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The OPP reminds riders to exercise caution and follow basic safety rules when operating ORV’s and MSV’s. Investigations into ORV and MSV collisions continue to show that alcohol consumption, lack of experience, high speed, lack of helmet use and overall carelessness are major contributing factors in severe injuries or deaths associated with this outdoor activity.
In 2017, there were 20 people who died in ORV incidents in OPP jurisdiction.
In 2018, to date, there have been 18 people who have died in ORV incidents in OPP jurisdiction.
Ensure that you are aware of the requirements to operate an ORV:
- For off-road driving, the owner of the ORV must ensure the driver is at least 12 years of age, unless they are on land occupied by the ORV owner or under the close supervision of an adult.
- To drive on or cross a roadway the operator must be 16 years of age and hold a minimum class G2/M2 driver’s licence.
- Must wear an approved motorcycle helmet that is securely fastened under the chin with a chin strap at all times.
- Must have valid insurance and registration if not on private property.
- Must operate in the same direction of traffic on the shoulder of a public roadway.
- On a roadway, if speed limits 50 km/hr, you cannot exceed 20 km, if speed limits exceed 50 km/hr, you cannot exceed 50 km/hr.
Ensure that you are aware of the requirements to operate an MSV:
- Be at least 12 years of age or have a valid driver’s licence or motorized snow vehicle operator’s licence.
- If you do not have a driver’s licence and you’re 12 years of age or older, a valid motorized snow vehicle operator’s licence (MSVOL) will allow you to drive an MSV on trails.
- Must have valid insurance and registration if not on private property.
- Snowmobiles may not be operated at a greater rate of speed than:
- 50km/hr on snowmobile trails;
- 50 km/hr on roads where the speed limit is over 50 km/hr;
- 20 km/hr on roads where the speed limit is 50 km/hr or less;
- 20 km/hr in any public park or exhibition grounds.
- Drivers and passengers must always wear a snowmobile helmet that meets the standards approved for motorcycle helmets, with the chin strap securely fastened. Everyone who rides on a cutter, sled or similar device towed by a snowmobile must also wear a helmet.
Safety tips include:
- Keep a snowmobile safety kit.
- Plan your trip before you leave and advise others of where you are riding.
- Be cautious of groomers and other drivers.
- Always stay on the right-hand side of the trail.
- Take extra caution when driving at night.
For more information on ORV /MSV safety or legal requirements, visit
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/snowmobile-safety.shtml
