DNR offers online ATV safety course

The Indiana Department Natural Resources Law Enforcement and Outdoor Recreation divisions are partnering to offer an online All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) safety course.

ATVs and other off-road vehicles have increased in popularity over the past decade, but so have accidents. Indiana Conservation Officer Maj. Michael Portteus reports that ATV accidents are have increased nearly 40 percent over the past four years from 153 in 2008 to 214 last year.

“The online safety course will educate people on the safety rules of riding, using and operating an ATV,” said Lt. Larry Morrison, head of DNR Law Enforcement’s outdoor education program.

The online course presents a wide variety of information on the basics of ATVs, safe operation of ATVs, responsibilities of riders to others and the environment, and general information on preparing for the unexpected.
The online course can be found at offroad-ed.com/in/index.htm and can be studied at a personal pace. A $30 fee is assessed prior to beginning the certification test. Individuals who successfully complete the test are issued a lifetime certification card.

“This certification ensures that the operator is well educated and has learned how to safely operate an ATV, which is the first step in reducing the number of ATV accidents in Indiana,” said Dale Brier, chief of DNR Outdoor Recreation’s streams and trails section.

For more information: Lt. William T. Browne, Indiana Conservation Officer, (765) 509-0207.