Illegal ATV Use on Roads Faces Crackdown in St. Mary’s County
In Leonardtown, Maryland, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office (SMCSO) is actively cautioning motorists about the dangers and legal consequences of operating unregistered all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and other off-road vehicles on public highways. …
In Leonardtown, Maryland, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office (SMCSO) is actively cautioning motorists about the dangers and legal consequences of operating unregistered all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and other off-road vehicles on public highways. As temperatures rise, prompting more outdoor activities, the SMCSO emphasizes adherence to Maryland's Safety Code, which prohibits such practices.
Unregistered off-road vehicles, lacking necessary safety features and not designed for pavement use, increase the risks of accidents. Operating these vehicles on highways is illegal under state law, exposing drivers to potential citations and fines.
Sergeant Dale Smith of the SMCSO Traffic Safety Unit expressed the agency's resolve in a recent statement. "We are unwavering in our commitment to ensuring the safety of our roads for everyone," he said. "As the weather gets warmer, we understand the desire to enjoy the outdoors, but it's crucial to prioritize safety and ride ATVs and other off-road vehicles only in designated areas."
The sheriff's office warns that the use of unregistered vehicles on highways can lead to significant hazards, not only to the drivers of these vehicles but also to other motorists, pedestrians, and road users. Such vehicles are often not equipped with standard safety features found in road-worthy automobiles, making them unsuitable and unsafe for paved roads.
Maryland residents looking for legal recreation options for their off-road vehicles are encouraged to visit the Maryland Department of Natural Services website. The site provides comprehensive information on designated trails specifically suited for off-road vehicle use across the state.
This initiative reflects a broader enforcement to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents, especially as outdoor activities increase with the warmer weather. The SMCSO's efforts to educate and enforce the laws regarding unregistered vehicles underscore the importance of safety in both rural and urban settings.
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