UTICA, NY – The Utica Police Department this week cracked down on illegal dirt bike and ATV riding on city streets after residents in the North and East Utica Neighborhoods complained about quality of life issues caused by the illegal riders.
“Yesterday, due to repeated community complaints, the Utica Police Department Patrol Division conducted a motorbike/ATV enforcement detail primarily in North and East Utica neighborhoods,” the Utica Police Department said. “Five (5) dirt bikes were impounded, twelve (12) Traffic Tickets were issued, and two (2) misdemeanor charges were levied. Additionally, three juveniles were stopped and not charged due to their ages.”
According to police, last year the City of Utica passed additional legislation outlining fines and impound fees for anyone caught operating these machines, additionally we would like to remind City of Utica residents and visitors about New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law regarding motorized devices.
“You cannot register or operate any of the motorized devices on any street, highway, parking lot, sidewalk, or another area in New York State that allows public motor vehicle traffic. You may be arrested or ticketed if you do,” police said.
What vehicles are illegal to drive on Utica streets?
• Motorized Scooter – a device with a motor attached and a handlebar for a standing rider. An example of a motorized scooter is the device called the Go-ped®.
• Mini-bike – a small, motorized device with two wheels and created for off-road use. A mini-bike doesn’t qualify as a moped, a motorcycle or an ATV.
• Off-road Motorcycle (Dirt Bike) – A motorcycle designed for use on off-road trails or in off-road competitions. Unless exempt, these vehicles must be registered as an ATV. You can learn more about registering an ATV by visiting https://dmv.ny.gov/registration/register-atv
• Go-Kart – a small, motorized device with four wheels, created for off-road use. You can’t register a go-kart as a motor vehicle or ATV because a go-kart doesn’t have the same equipment.
• Golf Cart (also referred to as Golf Car or Neighborhood Electric Vehicle) – a small motorized device with four wheels designed to carry people. You can’t register a golf cart as an ATV. Many low speed vehicles are similar in appearance to a golf cart, and can be registered and driven on New York State highways. 1
• Motor-assisted Bicycle – a bicycle to which a small motor is attached. A motor-assisted bicycle doesn’t qualify for a registration as a motorcycle, moped or ATV and doesn’t have the same equipment.
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