The “70 Inch” Law Impacts All New York State

It was a real shock to the system when you walked outside on Tuesday morning in portions of New York State as the temperatures were well below freezing, again. But it is April and the warm air will be back soon!

Are you ready to ride that ATV or UTV this spring? Have you been dreaming of hitting a trail or slopping in a mud pit? If so, you are not alone!

The snowmobile season was one of the best we have had in years here in New York State. The cold air and lake effect snow made for some great conditions. However, the sleds are put away and it is time to get back on you four wheeler or side by side.

What Is Considered An ATV In New York State?

According to New York State law, there are a few specifics when it comes to the size an actually ATV can be. If you shop in a motor sports store these days, some of the new machines are as big as small cars!

One glance at the New York State law and it is clear that that an ATV is to be, "An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is any self-propelled vehicle with two or more wheels that is manufactured for sale to be used primarily off-highway or in off-road competitions, and that is no wider than 70 inches and weighs no more than 1,000 pounds".

There are various laws about where and when you can ride an ATV. For example, I wrote a story recently about the "90 Degree Angle" law that pertains to riding across a road or highway.

Popular Ride Canceled

A popular ATV event has been canceled this year in New York State. The annual "Snirt Run" has been huge for years and will not take place, officially, this spring.

No matter the plan you have for your ATV this year, make sure that you follow the laws about registration if you plan to ride ANYWHERE in New York State.