OHV riders now required to wear helmets while riding on public land

A new law making the use of an approved helmet mandatory while riding an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) on public land comes into effect May 15.
“This government has made a commitment to improving safety on Alberta’s transportation network,” said Alberta Transportation Minister Brian Mason.
“Albertans told us overwhelmingly that they wanted us to make helmets a requirement for OHV riders, and we responded,” he said, “This will keep riders safe so that OHVs can be enjoyed well into the future.”
The new law aims to reduce head injuries, which have been found to cause the majority of injuries to OHV riders in the province.
Under the new legislation, helmets are required, on public land, for anyone riding on, in, or being towed by an OHV.
Enforcement will be done through fines which will range from $93 for not wearing an approved helmet and $155 for failing to wear a helmet.
Laws requiring helmets for OHV riders exist in several other provinces.
Public consultations were held in the fall of 2016. The government said that the majority of respondents wanted helmet laws to be passed.
In addition to public support, the law received support from community advocates and health organizations.
The designation of OHV includes four-wheel drive vehicles, such as ATVs, as well as dirt bikes and snowmobiles.