March 1, 2016
By Paul Joseph, Paragon Communications News Director –
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding operators to use extra caution while using recreational vehicles especially now as spring and summer months approach.
According to a press release issued by the department, spring and summer months are the times when usage typically increases.
DPS is also urging motorists to abide by the laws that exclude 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, including interstate and state highways as well as county or local streets and there are very few exemptions that allow these vehicles to be operated on public roadways.
According to the release, in recent months, recreational vehicles have been involved in several serious crashes, resulting in death or serious injury. In addition, DPS has seen an increase in children being injured or killed while operating or riding in these vehicles in recent years.
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.
And the department reminds operators that if they use a recreational vehicle, always wear a helmet, eye protection, and be safe.
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