News.bytes Extra, issue 480 

Double riding on ATVs in California illegal!

California Vehicle Code (38506 CVC) prohibits double riding on ATVs on public lands, unless the ATV is designed to carry a passenger. 

ATVs are rider active, designed for a single rider who uses the entire seat while riding.  A rider will use the entire seat area to negotiate turns and facilitate movement while going up or down hills.  A passenger restricts the rider’s movement, interfering with the balance and handling of the vehicle.  How?  A passenger becomes a liability when traveling up a hill, making the vehicle too heavy in the back, and potentially causing it to flip backwards.  Riders typically shift their weight to the front of the vehicle when ascending a hill.  Conversely, a rider will shift their weight to the back of the vehicle when descending a hill, so the machine will not end over itself.  As needed, riders also shift their weight either left or right when negotiating turns to keep the machine from rolling.

A rules and regulations sign used at the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area to inform visitors of this important regulation. (Graphic from the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) used with permission.)

- Information from Joya Szalwinski, interpretive park ranger, Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area/BLM El Centro Field Office, 5/11/11

BLM-California News.bytes, issue 480
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