Fairbanks Troopers outline “rules of the road” for summer recreational vehicles

clarification: After some questions surfaced as to the legality of having to register ATVs within the State of Alaska, we reached out to the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles. Per their representative, any ATV that is not operated solely on private properly needs to be registered. For more specific information please call the Alaska DMV at (907) 269-5551.

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - The days are getting longer and warmer, and many Alaskans are pulling out their ATVs, side-by-sides and dirt bikes to enjoy the summer.

But like many thing, there are rules involved with recreational vehicles.

Alaska Wildlife Trooper Jim Eyester said that the most important thing is being safe. Anyone under 16 is required to have a helmet on, and while those older than 16 are not required to wear one, it is recommended .

Eyester also said that owners are legally required to register their ATVs with the state.* He says that when in town, it is unsafe and illegal to ride on roads and sidewalks as ATVs are not made to be used on hard surfaces.

Riders can cross roads when needed. Eyester said, “Take a 90 degree angle from point to point right across. If you are riding across the road and you want to cross and there is a fence, stay on your side, wait until you get around the fence... if there is another obstacle, private property, a waterway, whatever the case may be, make sure you get to where you can cross that safely in the most direct manner.”

Eyester did say that riders are allowed to use bridges to cross waterways, but they should do so in a safe manner and get off the road once reaching the other side.

*Please see clarification above.

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