A small group of poorly behaved offroad vehicle drivers has forced Kitimat RCMP to start enforcing a blanket ban on Kitimat’s roads.
Cpl. Scott Kirychuk said users of off-road vehicles (dirtbikes, quads, and side by sides) without a valid drivers licence and insurance will no longer be allowed on any street, road, or highway in the District of Kitimat (including Dike Road).
The existing bylaw, which hasn’t been strictly enforced up till now, also prohibits the crossing of roads and highways by offroad vehicles.
“Due to the bad behaviour of a small number of off-road vehicle operators who tend to speed through the community, as well as refusing to stop for police when a traffic stop is initiated, Kitimat RCMP is now forced to adopt a no tolerance policy for these vehicles being operated on Kitimat roads and highways,” said Kirychuk.
“Any person caught operating an off-road vehicle on the streets or highways in and around Kitimat now faces fines of $598 for no insurance and $276 for operating without a drivers licence.”
He said in addition to the fines, the off-road vehicles will be towed back to the owner’s residence at their expense.
He added that the ban comes after two young riders operating dirtbikes illegally on Kitimat streets were struck by a vehicle that was being driven legally.
“While the first youth was not injured, the second youth suffered several broken bones that required surgical intervention to repair. As well, the cars that were damaged in these collisions were not covered by the person at fault as they had no insurance.”