REGINA — With the August long weekend approaching and many Saskatchewan riders making the most of the summer ATV season, the Saskatchewan All-Terrain Vehicle Association (SATVA) is reminding everyone to keep alcohol, drugs and ATV riding separate.
The association’s message is simple: Stay Safe. Respect The Trails. Don’t Drink and Ride.
“ATVs are powerful vehicles that require focus, balance, judgment and quick reaction time,” said John Meed, SATVA general manager.
“ Alcohol and drugs interfere with all of those things. If you are impaired, you should not be operating an ATV.”
SATVA is encouraging riders to think about safety before they head out. Whether riding on public trails, at the lake, on private land or as part of a group outing, impaired riding creates serious risks for the operator, passengers, other riders and bystanders.
Just like operating a car, operating an ATV while impaired is illegal. Riders can face criminal charges for impaired operation, even when riding off-road. For youth riders, zero tolerance applies.
SATVA says impairment can affect a rider’s ability to steer, brake, judge distance, respond to uneven terrain and react to unexpected hazards. On an ATV, where riders often encounter ruts, mud, hills, rocks, water crossings, other trail users and changing weather conditions, those split-second decisions matter, the organization warns.
“People sometimes think that because they are on a trail, at the cabin or on private property, the risks are lower,” said Meed. “That is simply not true. Impaired riding can lead to rollovers, collisions, serious injuries and fatalities. It is not worth the risk.”
SATVA encourages riders to make a plan before the ride begins which includes:
- Choose a sober rider.
- Do not mix alcohol or drugs with ATVing.
- Make transportation plans before drinking begins.
- Speak up if someone is about to ride impaired.
- Watch out for friends, family members and other riders in your group.
“Responsible riding is about more than protecting yourself,” said Meed. “It is about making sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.”
The reminder is part of SATVA’s 2026 summer safety campaign, which encourages riders to wear the proper gear, follow the rules, ride within their limits and make smart choices every time they ride.
