Fort St. John RCMP issue warning about ‘unsafe’ off-roaders

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Fort St. John RCMP are concerned about the unusually high number of complaints of motorized vehicles improperly using a trail in the northwest end of the city.

According to a press release issued by police on Tuesday, July 15th, officers have received “an increase in complaints” regarding riders using dirt bikes, all-terrain and utility-task vehicles unsafely, particularly in “places they should not be.”

This includes improper usage of the Solar Trail at the intersection of 119th Avenue and 100th Street. 

Complaints include “unsafe and erratic operation of off-road vehicles on either streets and walking paths” and “drivers riding without helmets.”

The lack of wearing a helmet is a concern as, according to police, helmets are “the most important safety equipment a rider can wear and most are not wearing anything.”

“Our goal in speaking to this is for the safety and wellbeing of all involved,” said Constable Chad Neustaeter, media relations officer for the Fort St John RCMP. 

“Wearing a helmet, respecting the laws and other people are simple things that go a long way toward personal safety as well as building community.”

Operators could face various penalties from $100 up to $598 for various violations ranging from driving an off-road vehicle within city limits to not having insurance and driving on roadways or criminal charges if a driver or pedestrian is injured or killed.

Further information is available on the RCMP’s release here.