PORTLAND, Ore. - New ATV regulations that were signed into law by Gov. Ted Kulongoski in 2007 are being phased in, including one new law that already went into effect earlier this year.

The idea behind the new regulations is to keep people safe, especially kids.

"There have been a growing number of ATV-related deaths and injuries in Oregon and nationally, but crash reports indicate that nearly all of these accidents were preventable," Ron Price, ATV Program Coordinator for the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department, said in a press release.

So what are the new rules? 

The one you should be aware of now is the one that went into effect on January 1, 2008.  The law now requires that children under 18 ride with their helmet chin-straps fastened and they must be supervised by someone who is at least 18 years old, has received accredited ATV training and can provide immediate assistance to the child.

Here is what you need to be aware of in the future:

January 1, 2009

• Riders under the age of 16 must ride on a properly fitting quad and will be required to complete a mandatory safety education course developed to teach safe, responsible riding behavior. Upon passing the test, they will be sent an ATV Education Card which must be carried while riding on public lands.
• In addition, all riders under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 18 years of age and holds a valid ATV Education Card, so anyone supervising young riders must complete and pass the course and carry their card.

January 1, 2014

• All ATV riders will be required to complete the safety education course, pass the test and carry a valid card. For the schedule of the minimum age requirements being phased in, along with complete information on the rule changes for Oregon’s ATV riders, go to www.rideATVoregon.org or call 1-877-7SAFELY.
• The course will be available on the website beginning January 1, 2009. Those without internet access may call the toll-free number for a printed copy of the study guide and test. The course is free, and riders who wish to receive a reminder when the course becomes available can visit the website now to sign up for an email announcement.

Do you have questions or concerns about the new rules?  Folks are invited to attend one of five public meetings in the coming weeks:

July 10 - Florence

Florence Conference Center
715 Quince Street, Room TBD
6 to 8 p.m.

July 14 - Bend

Comfort Inn Suites
62065 S.E. 27th Street, Room TBD
6 to 8 p.m.

July 15 - Baker City

Geiser Grand Hotel
1996 Main Street, Swan Room
6 to 8 p.m.

July 23 - Salem

Oregon Parks and Recreation
725 Summer Street, Suite C
6 to 8 p.m.

July 24 - Medford

City of Medford Public Library
205 S. Central, Adams Room
6 to 8 p.m.