Police: ATV Violations Common in 2 West Virginia Counties

West Virginia State Police say improper usage of all-terrain vehicles is common in McDowell and Mercer counties.

Troopers say many violators claim they’re unaware of ATV usage restrictions.

Cpl. C.K. Morton with the Welch detachment tells the Bluefield Daily Telegraph that local residents use their ATVs to go to the grocery store or the post office. But they ride on roads where ATVs aren’t permitted.

Morton says ATVs are allowed on certain roads to provide trail riders with access to gas stations or trailheads. But the law doesn’t allow ATVs on these roads for people to run errands.

Sgt. M.S. Haynes with the Princeton detachment says ATV complaints are widespread in Mercer County, particularly in neighborhoods. Problems range from reckless driving to children driving ATVs.