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New ATV and snowmobile laws announced

The Yukon government tabled amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act this week that will change the rules of the road for snowmobiles and other off-road vehicles.

The Yukon government tabled amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act this week that will change the rules of the road for snowmobiles and other off-road vehicles.

Many of the new rules only apply when driving on maintained roadways.

In that circumstance, the driver will be required to carry a driver’s licence, insurance and registration for the snowmobile, wear a helmet, and to abide by the rules of the road.

Drivers and passengers 16-years-old or younger will be required to wear helmets whether the vehicle is on a road or in the backcountry.

During question period NDP MLA Lois Moorcroft asked if the government has considered how the new rules might affect the Trek over the Top and the Alcan 200, two popular annual snowmobile races.

“Where the race may be affected is with the amendments that deal with registration and licensing,” said Moorcroft.

It is unclear from Highways Minister Wade Istchenko’s answer if all riders in the races will be required to hold a driver’s licence, insurance and registration in order to participate in the events.

“They have requirements for insurance that we require on our portion of the roads when they get their road right-of-way permit and they have it listed in the requirements to enter and participate in the function,” he said.