ATV Safety: New York State Increases Minimum Age For Operation

A new year means new laws in New York and to enhance safety and prevent accidents involving minors on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), New York State will raise the minimum age for ATV operation.

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The amendment, which was passed in October 2023 and goes into effect by the end of February 2024, states that the minimum age to operate an ATV will now be raised from ten years old to 14 years old. This change comes as a response to recent ATV crashes involving young children, some of which have been fatal.

The amendment also introduces the requirement that any supervision of ATV operation must now be undertaken by individuals who are 18 years of age or older. Previously, the law allowed for a person who holds an ATV safety certificate and is 16 years of age or older to supervise ATV operations. However, this allowance has been removed due to concerns regarding the proficiency and capability of younger supervisors.

The introduction of this amendment is based on compelling evidence from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which affirms that children are "not developmentally capable of operating these heavy, complex machines." It acknowledges that the smaller size and immaturity of young children can lead to dangerous ATV operations, as they may lack the necessary skills and judgment to handle such vehicles safely.

In addition to raising the minimum age to operate an ATV, the legislation also restricts children under the age of 16 to ride ATVs only on public land while being supervised by an adult who is 18 years old or older. This measure aims to create safer environments for young ATV riders and reduce the risk of accidents and fatalities.