STATEHOUSE (April 25, 2017) — Gov. Eric Holcomb signed State Rep. Lloyd Arnold’s (R-Leavenworth) bill into law Monday, which aims to reduce fatalities of young Hoosiers riding off-road vehicles.
Under House Enrolled Act 1200, those younger than 18 years old will be required to wear a helmet while riding or operating an off-road vehicle, such as an ATV.
“One of the main goals of this law is to help raise awareness in Indiana about the precautions our kids need to take when enjoying off-road vehicles,” Arnold said. “We’ve seen time and time again how helmets can save lives, and I appreciate the outpouring of support for this legislation from southwest Indiana. Hopefully, it will help families avoid the ATV-related tragedies that have become all too common.”
Over the last five years, 1,285 ATV-related injuries have occurred in Indiana. Unfortunately, fatalities are on the rise, according to Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources. In 2016, there were 22 deaths resulting from off-road vehicle accidents. Of those 22, only three were wearing helmets. That number is up from 16 the year before and 13 in 2014. Currently, Indiana’s state parks and facilities require ATV riders, regardless of age, to wear helmets. That requirement, however, does not extend to private property.
According to Arnold, the owner of the off-road vehicle would be responsible for ensuring that the minor riding or operating it is wearing a helmet. There is an exemption for those riding or operating off-road vehicles under the age of 18 if it is for agricultural purposes.
The new law will go in to effect July 1, 2017. Visit iga.in.gov for more information about this law.
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State Rep. Lloyd Arnold (R-Leavenworth) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
A high-resolution photo of Arnold can be downloaded by clicking here.
