As the weather gets milder, LaSalle police are warning all-terrain vehicle (ATV) users of the consequences of trespassing.
On its official Facebook page this week, police have urged enthusiasts to review guidelines before setting out. Senior Constable Terry Seguin has urged users to ask themselves some questions before using their vehicles.
"Am I complying with all pertinent legislation whether it be by-laws, provincial law, and criminal law?" said Seguin. "Am I safely operating my ATV or ORV? Am I creating a dangerous situation for myself or others? Am I being considerate and neighbourly, taking into consideration how my actions may affect other residents?"
The bottom line for ATV, snowmobile, and off-road vehicle users is that if you are not on public roads or private property with the owner's knowledge and permission, you are trespassing and could face criminal and civil charges.
Users are not permitted to operate vehicles on any town-owned trails, lands, sidewalks, or roads.
Police understand that farm fields may be tempting for users as they provide wide open spaces, but farming and ATV use don't mix.
"Every plant destroyed by being run over or torn up by vehicles is money directly out of their pocket and causes an undue financial burden to the farmer," said Seguin. "Farmers often plant crops over the winter, such as winter wheat that may not be visible under the snow. Driving over the plants crushes and kills the crops."
Tracks owned by the Essex Terminal Railway are also off-limits.
"Vehicles travelling along the ETR tracks disturb the aggregate under and around the wooden ties that hold the tracks in place, which could result in a train derailment or disaster," said Seguin. "Placing any object on the tracks or deliberately disturbing, modifying, or damaging the tracks or ETR property could result in a criminal charge. Several homes abut this corridor that must endure the endless noise of off-road vehicles throughout the year. These homeowners are being deprived of the rightful enjoyment of their property."
For ATV users who are serious about operating safely and legally, Windsor-Essex's only certified ATV club says there are safe places in the county to use your vehicle. Shawn Ellenberger, president of the Essex County ATV Club, said the group does not condone or tolerate use on private property without the owner's consent.
"There are two properties that are insured and legal for ATV use, between Walker Road and Howard Avenue," said Ellenberger in a Facebook message to WindsorNewsToday.ca. "We encourage people to use these areas instead of creating issues with local authorities."
Complete information on where in Ontario you can legally drive ATVs or off-road vehicles can be found on the official provincial website.
