Alaska has special laws referring to the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATV). Many people in Alaska use these vehicles to get around every day. These vehicles are necessary to travel to some rural villages and through mountains, trails and other areas where standard vehicles cannot. Although called recreational vehicles, for individuals in remote areas, ATV’s may be the only way in or out of the community.
Where Is It Okay To Ride ATV’s?
ATV’s are for off-road use only; you cannot take them on a highway or main roadway at all. According to Alaska’s laws, any vehicle that goes onto a roadway must be registered with the DMV. ATV’s are not required to be registered and therefore cannot be driven on any State maintained roadways, including the shoulder, bike lanes, and sidewalks.
If an ATV is taken onto the highway by its driver, it can be impounded by police in certain circumstances. In some instances, it’s possible to hold a person liable for injuries if he or she takes an ATV onto a highway and causes a collision. There are rare occasions where ATV’s can be used near roadways or to cross roadways. When crossing a roadway, those driving in registered vehicles have the right-of-way.
Drive With Care
Driving recklessly on an ATV can be dangerous and can cause a serious accident. Carelessness can also cause others who weren’t involved to suffer consequences. For instance, if a child wrecks and hurts another person, that minor’s parent can be held accountable. The victim is left with injuries, and the parent is left facing penalties for a situation he or she was not directly involved in.
Riding an ATV should be fun. However, many people are injured or killed in ATV accidents each year. A person seriously injured due to the negligence of another may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit.
For further information or to schedule a consultation please contact Merdes Law Office, P.C.at 866.452.3741 or visit www.merdes.com. The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do.
