A reminder is being put out to the public about dirt bikes in the Comox Valley with complaints on the rise.
Comox Valley RCMP said both gas-powered and high-powered e-dirt bikes are not street legal and dangerous riding behaviour has been an increasing safety concern.
Const. Monika Terragni said the rules around safe operation and road use remain very similar.
“The concern isn’t about taking fun away from kids, it’s about preventing serious injuries and helping young riders avoid consequences that can follow them for years.”
Police said e-dirt bikes have become more popular and as a result, more off-road vehicles have been spotted operating on local streets, sidewalks, trails, neighbourhoods, schools and parks.
Riders and parents may mistakenly think e-dirt bikes fall under the same rules as e-bikes said the RCMP, but both gas and electric dirt bikes are treated almost the same under the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act.
Both dirt bikes and e-dirt bikes cannot be operated on public roads unless they meet licensing, registration and insurance requirements.
Terragni said parents, riders and the public all have a role in keeping roads and pathways safe.
“The goal is for everyone to make responsible decisions, so enforcement doesn’t have to become part of the conversation.”
Illegally driving dirt bikes or e-dirt bikes on roads can lead to penalties including:
- No Insurance: $598
- No driver’s license: $276 and three penalty points
- No helmet: $138 and two penalty points
- Driving without due care: $368 and six penalty points
- Driving without consideration: $196 and six penalty points
- Seven-day vehicle impoundment
- Stunting-related offences
Violation tickets may be issued to either the rider or the registered owner and those issued to an unlicensed youth can impact future licensing with ICBC.
Comox Valley RCMP said education and targeted enforcement efforts will continue in the area.
