If you're looking to break into some fun in Southern West Virginia, ATV riding is a popular choice. Before you hit the trails, you need to know the laws to stay safe.
"I think as long as you're safe about them, it's just like anything: a car, a truck or a motorcycle, you just have to use your head and be safe about it," said one resident of Raleigh County.
But for others who can't handle that responsibility, accidents happened, and laws had to be made.
59 News Reporter Jessie Gavin hopped on a brand new ATV Thursday and got the rundown on the do's and don'ts of ATV riding.
SwampFox Motorsports General Manager Will Smith believes overall people are pretty smart with their new purchases.
"I think people are aware of the laws regarding ATVs and their operations and in particular in regards to driving on roadways.
But for those of us who aren't as well versed with the rules and regulations of owning such a vehicle, Smith showed 59 News the West Virginia State laws on his computer and printed out a hard copy.
"It's very simple. Anybody can go to the Department of Transportation's website, under the DMV and look up the manuals for ATV laws and such. It's right there on the website. And I have a hard copy here, I can give this to anybody that has questions about it, it's right from the DMV website."
With state and city laws to abide by, it can be confusing to know how to stay within the law, so Smith broke down the different laws.
"Within the state law there is provision that allows different municipalities to set their own laws. if you go in the Hatfield McCoy area of the state, lots of those towns allow people to ride on city streets to get to restaurants or gas stations. So it can be confusing."
Sheriff's Deputy Brian Stump explained exactly what is legal and illegal.
"If you're under 18 you are required to have a safety course which most of ATV and motorcycle dealerships will schedule and provide. If you're 18 you also have to have a helmet. To ride besides the roadway you either have to be 18 or possess a West Virginia drivers license," said Raleigh County Deputy Sheriff Brian Stump.
General Manager Will Smith believes parents role in influencing safety is vital and often times underrated.
"You know parents should take an active role in teaching their children how to ride an ATV. They're not toys, they're not babysitters. They need to have adult supervision until a certain age. The manufacturers are very good at giving us restrictions and regulations and requirements for certain age groups. And the state requires children under the age of 18 to take a training course. Which a lot of people don't know that."
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