Northern Ont. pair charged for not wearing helmets on UTV

Ontario Provincial Police charged two utility terrain vehicle riders for failing to wear helmets in during a traffic stop in French River, Ont., on August 8, 2025. (Ontario Provincial Police/Facebook)

Ontario Provincial Police charged two individuals after stopping a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) on Pilon Road in French River for a helmet violation on Aug. 6.

The driver, a 63-year-old man from Innisfil, and his passenger, a 60-year-old woman from Mississauga, were both charged for failing to wear proper helmets.

Helmets mandatory

Under Ontario law, operators and passengers of UTVs and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) must wear an approved helmet at all times – whether on trails, private property or road crossings.

“Helmets are required under the Off-Road Vehicles Act, reduce risks of serious head injuries, and set a good example for youths,” police said in a social media post about the incident.

Authorities emphasized that proper helmet use is not only a legal obligation but a critical safety measure.

“Ride safe. Ride smart. Wear your helmet,” OPP said.