Full Notification

As the summer season brings an increase in outdoor recreational activities, the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents to prioritize safety, especially when operating All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). To ensure a safer and more enjoyable summer, here are a few essential guidelines for ATV riders and parents:
No Off-Road Vehicles for Children Too Young: Research has shown that children under 16 years old account for about 1 in 4 of the reported injuries, according to a 2021 study conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Avoid Riding Double on ATVs: Most ATVs are designed to carry only one person—the driver. Riding with passengers can make the vehicle unstable and challenging to control, often leading to injuries. It is crucial for riders to avoid riding double and adhere to the manufacturer's intended capacity.
Mandatory Hands-On Safety Training Course: All ATV riders, regardless of their experience level, should complete a hands-on safety training course. These courses equip riders with essential skills and knowledge to handle off-road vehicles responsibly and safely.
Protective Gear: Helmets, Eye Protection, and Appropriate Clothing: ATV riders must wear helmets designed for motorcycle use (not bicycle helmets) with safety visors or face shields for eye protection. Sturdy shoes, not flip-flops, should be worn, along with protective and reflective clothing to enhance visibility, especially during low-light conditions.
Avoid Street Use and Unpaved Roads: ATVs lack the safety features of regular cars and trucks. These vehicles are not suitable for use on paved roads, and riding them on paved roads is strongly discouraged, as ATV tires are not designed to grip on the pavement.
Prohibit Nighttime Riding: Parents and guardians should never allow children to ride ATVs during nighttime hours. Visibility is significantly reduced at night, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Enhance Vehicle Visibility: Use flags, reflectors, and lights to increase the visibility of ATVs, making them more noticeable to other motorists and reducing the likelihood of collisions.
Zero Tolerance for Impaired Driving: Recreational vehicle operators must never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain prescription medications. Impaired driving poses serious risks to the ATV operator and others in the vicinity.
Let’s all have a safe and entertaining summer!