We’re seeing a growing and concerning trend in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia: more and more people — especially youth — are driving ATVs, dirt bikes, and other off-road vehicles on public streets, through towns, and even on sidewalks and walking trails. People are reporting this activity on social media and sharing images of people riding on the streets during the day and even after dark which is even more dangerous as many of these vehicles have no or poor lighting. While it may seem like harmless fun or a shortcut to get from point A to point B, the risks are real, and the consequences can be serious.

Let’s break it down: What happens if you — or your child — is involved in an ATV accident on a city street? What if the driver is uninsured or under the legal driving age? Who pays, and how can this impact your insurance going forward?

ATVs on City Streets: What’s the Law?

In both Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador, ATVs are classified as off-road vehicles. That means they are not permitted on public roads, highways, or city streets, except in very specific circumstances — such as designated crossings or under direct supervision for regulated activities. And drivers of ATVs must:

• Be at least 16 years of age (underage drivers are not legally permitted to operate off-road vehicles unsupervised),
• Wear helmets and protective gear, and
• Carry valid off-road vehicle insurance and registration.
• Operating an ATV on city streets is illegal, dangerous, and in many cases, completely uninsured.

Scenario 1: Your Child Is Injured by an Uninsured ATV Driver

Let’s say your child is walking home from school and is struck by an ATV driven illegally on a town road. The driver has no insurance — and may even be under 16.

So who pays?

If the ATV driver is uninsured, you or your family may need to turn to your own auto insurance policy under Section D – Uninsured Automobile Coverage, which can provide compensation for injuries or damages caused by an uninsured or unidentified driver (i.e., hit and run).

But this coverage often has limits, and navigating a claim through it can be complex, especially if the driver is underage.

In some cases, you may need to pursue compensation through civil court against the ATV owner or the parents of the underage driver — which can take time and cost money.

Scenario 2: Your Child Was the One Driving the ATV

Now, consider if your child was the one operating the ATV on a public road — illegally, underage, and without insurance — and causes an accident or injury.

You, as the parent or guardian, may be held financially liable. And it doesn’t stop there:

Any damages or injuries caused in the accident may have to be paid out of pocket, which could run into the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on the severity of the crash.

If the ATV is registered in your name or you permitted its use, your own insurance policies may be affected, even if the accident didn’t involve your insured vehicle.

How Will This Impact Auto Insurance Premiums?
If a claim is made against your auto policy due to an uninsured ATV accident, or if your household is found responsible in any way:

Your auto insurance premiums may increase significantly, regardless if an injury or large payout is involved.

If your child is listed as a driver on your policy or is added in the future, their rates could be dramatically higher — or they may only qualify for high-risk insurance.

Some insurers may refuse to offer coverage altogether in cases where serious liability or legal violations were involved.

Scenario 3: You (the Parent or Adult) Were the One Driving the ATV — and You Don’t Have ATV Insurance

If you’re the one driving the ATV and you cause an accident — especially on a city street or public road — and you don’t have ATV insurance, the consequences can be extremely serious.

Your Auto Insurance Will Not Cover the Accident

Many people assume that their standard auto insurance policy will protect them in any vehicle they operate, but this is not the case with ATVs or dirt bikes.

Auto insurance policies do not extend to off-road vehicles unless specifically endorsed.

Even if you have a clean driving record and full coverage on your car or truck, that coverage does not apply to an ATV.

If the ATV is not insured under its own policy, you are considered uninsured in the eyes of the law and your insurer.

You May Be Sued Personally — and the Costs Can Be Devastating

If you injure someone while operating an uninsured ATV, you may be held personally responsible for:

• Emergency and long-term medical expenses
• Lost wages and income support
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Legal fees

In serious injury or fatality cases, claims can easily reach into the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Without insurance to protect you, these costs could come directly out of your own pocket — putting your home, savings, retirement plans, and financial future at risk.

Your Insurance Record Will Suffer Long-Term Damage

Being at fault in an uninsured accident is one of the most damaging things that can happen to your insurance history. Even if you’re able to repay what is owed and find coverage again, you’ll likely:

• Be categorized as a high-risk driver. This designation can remain on your record for up to 6 years and will impact not only your ATV insurance but also your regular auto and possibly home insurance as well.
• Face significantly higher premiums.
• Be required to pay the full annual premium upfront, with no payment plan options
• Have fewer insurers willing to insure you at all

What Can You Do to Protect Your Family?

Know the rules. ATVs are not street-legal vehicles. Talk to your kids about the legal age and requirements for off-road vehicle use.

• Get proper insurance. If you or your family owns an ATV, make sure it’s properly insured and registered — even if it’s “just used around the cabin.”
• Set clear boundaries. Do not allow your children to ride ATVs on public streets or areas where it is not permitted — even for a “quick trip.”
• Talk to your broker. Your local Munn Insurance broker can walk you through your coverage, help you review your Section D limits, and ensure you have the right protection in place for off-road vehicles.

What If There’s Stunting, Racing, or Dangerous Driving Involved?

We’ve all seen it — riders tearing through town doing wheelies, racing side-by-side down residential streets, or flying through stop signs. While it might seem thrilling for the driver (or look cool on social media), this type of reckless ATV or dirt bike use can carry even more severe consequences — legally, financially, and from an insurance standpoint.

Here’s what to know:

It’s Illegal — And Can Lead to Criminal Charges
Stunting, racing, excessive speed, and wheelies on public roads are considered dangerous driving offences under provincial and federal laws.

These actions can result in fines, vehicle seizure, license suspensions, and even criminal charges — especially if someone is injured or property is damaged.

Insurance Implications Are Severe

Most insurance policies won’t cover damages or injuries that result from illegal or criminal activity. If someone is injured while stunting or racing, coverage could be denied entirely.

If the rider is underage, unlicensed, or uninsured, the parents or vehicle owner may be held financially liable.

A conviction for dangerous driving or stunt driving can lead to:

• Skyrocketing auto insurance premiums
• Limited or denied access to standard insurance markets
• Placement into high-risk insurance pools with far higher rates
• Difficulty obtaining financing for future vehicles

If Someone Else Gets Hurt – You Could Be Sued

If a stunt or reckless act leads to a crash that injures another person — especially a pedestrian or other motorist — the financial consequences could be massive:

• Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, lawsuits, and pain and suffering claims could total hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
• Without proper insurance — which often excludes reckless behaviour — these costs could come directly out of your pocket.

Bottom Line: These Aren’t Toys.

ATVs and dirt bikes are powerful motor vehicles, not toys. When they’re misused — especially in public spaces or by young, unlicensed riders — the consequences can be tragic.

If you’re a parent, make sure your child understands the risks. Set clear rules. And if you own an ATV or off-road vehicle, talk to your local Munn Insurance broker to make sure your coverage is set up properly — and that it protects you if something goes wrong.

Whether it’s your child or you behind the handlebars, riding without proper insurance is never worth the risk. A few hundred dollars a year for the right ATV policy can protect you from financial ruin and ensure that if something does go wrong, you and your family have the coverage and support you need.

Final Thoughts

We all want our kids to enjoy the outdoors, have fun, and experience a bit of independence — but it needs to be done safely and legally. Illegal ATV use on public streets isn’t just a small infraction. It can lead to devastating injuries, serious financial loss, and long-lasting impacts on your family’s insurance history.

If you have questions about off-road vehicle insurance or how to protect your household from the risks, talk to us at Munn Insurance today. We’re here to help — locally, personally, and always on your side. Contact Munn Insurance today — we’re here to help you stay protected. Call us at 1-855-726-8627 or visit munninsurance.com