HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-01-26 Brandon Hanson
Charlene Way
From:Chris Johnson
Sent:Tuesday, January 26, 2021 10:10 AM
To:Charlene Way
Subject:FW: UTV's on the roads
From: brendon hanson <hansonbrendon9@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, January 26, 2021 10:07 AM
To: Caleb Hood <chood@meridiancity.org>; Chris Johnson <cjohnson@meridiancity.org>
Subject: UTV's on the roads
External Sender - Please use caution with links or attachments.
Hello,
It is my understanding that there will be a new city ordinance which restricts golf carts and UTV's to golf cart
communities. While this restriction may result in safer conditions for people in golf carts due to a lack of safety
equipment. UTV's are far different in that they share many of the safety components which are required in the
automobile industry. Idaho state law clearly states that UTV's can be used on public roads, which are not interstates or
highways, this greatly restricts their use within communities. Being a part of this community I can attest that the
overwhelming majority of people respect these restrictions put in place on UTV's and use their vehicles in a manner that
is respectful to governing bodies. It is the best interest to obey the laws and use UTV's respectfully,
Proposal;
However just as vehicle owners require policing, so do those driving UTV's. For this reason rather than banning UTV's
from the roadway, it may be in the best interest of the city and the offroad community to propose a fee either at
registration or an enhanced licence (sticker) which can be acquired through the city. This would offset or cover the cost
to the community for policing and road use, while allowing UTV owners to use public roads safely. To receive this
enhanced licensing it should be verified that the UTV is equipped with seatbelts, DOT tires, sound compliant muffler,.
and brake/ headlights. The owner must also carry insurance on their vehicle, most of which do. However providers of
insurance for recreational vehicles offer an addition to the policy for road use. I carry this on my own utv, so just like
when I am driving my vehicle if I were to crash my UTV on the road my insurance would provide coverage for property
damages, collision, and injury just as my auto policy would. Protecting not only me but also others on the roadway.
UTV's now share many of the features of any automobile, right down to the insurance. Because UTV's produce no
increased Liability to the city of those in the community I cannot see any justification to restricting UTV usage on the
roads. Especially when performed within the scope of the law.
Thank you for your consideration,
Brendon Hanson
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