Off-Road enthusiasts warned to ride responsibly

Observer Staff

5/14/2003 12:00:00 AM

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police are taking a zero tolerance posture for local youth riding irresponsibly on their off-road vehicles and go-carts around the Isabella Reservation. As of May 1, authorities will be issuing tickets for careless and reckless driving, as well as not wearing helmets.

"With warm weather approaching, there's been an increase in off-road vehicle activity," stated Capt. Joe Kequom. "We're getting a lot of complaints of youth driving without helmets, driving through front yards and around areas they shouldn't be. An off-road vehicle track was created to give the Tribal youth a place to ride where they don't have to worry about motorists and contending with traffic."

"We just want to provide a safe environment for the kids and their off-road vehicles while respecting the property of others," he added.

Resolution 95-006 prohibits the use of off-road vehicles, including, but not limited to, three-wheelers, four-wheelers and go-carts on any of the roads located in or on Saginaw Chippewa Housing Authority property.

Cautious driving habits and wearing a helmet are two important factors to avoid getting a ticket, but riders also need to be registered and insured. Tribal Police will tow vehicles that are uninsured and unregistered.