“There have been nine deaths related to all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents in the province. Compared to this time last year, that’s more than double. At this point in 2023, there had been four in Ontario,’ police spokesman Bill Dickson warned.

Authorities point out poor ATV operation is a problem, but the biggest factors leading to serious injuries and fatalities are improper helmet and seatbelt use.

‘I like to preach that these types of vehicles are not safe,’ Sgt. Byron Newell of the Eastern Region SAVE team, which operates specifically on Ontario’s trails and waterways, told reporters.

“They are always dangerous. That’s why you need to learn how to ride them properly,’ he added.

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