This week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding residents to use extra caution while using recreational vehicles as spring and summer months approach.
Officials said this is the time when usage typically increases. DPS is also urging Texans to always abide by the laws excluding recreational vehicles from public roadways. Recreational vehicles include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), go-carts, golf carts, dirt bikes, minibikes and pocket bikes.
Texas law generally prohibits these vehicles on any public roadway, such as interstate and state highways as well as county or local streets. Any street that is maintained by a municipality or county maintenance department is also included. There are very few exemptions that allow these vehicles to be operated on public roadways.
DPS noted that In recent months, recreational vehicles have been involved in several serious crashes, resulting in deaths or serious injuries. In addition, DPS has seen an increase in children being injured or killed while operating or riding in these vehicles in recent years.
A person who violates any laws regarding the use of these types of vehicles is committing an offense. DPS said it is important to remember that even when these vehicles are being operated legally, a minor must be accompanied by and be under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian at all times. DPS encourages owners to keep the keys to these types of vehicles away from children to reduce the risk of illegal operation and possible injury.
These vehicles are not intended to be driven on public roadways, and they are manufactured to operate at low speeds only, and they do not have adequate safety equipment/features and are not register or insured by the state of Texas. If you do use a recreational vehicle, make sure to always wear a helmet, eye protection, and be safe, DPS stated.
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