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Honorable Doug Barnard , Jr . , Chairman
and Members Page 2 MAY 17 1985
One other thing I keep hearing is talk of a recall . I see a recall as a poor way to deal with this problem . A need has been generated and the manufacturers are merely filling it . If you remove this supply point from the American citizen , he will try to fill the vacuum with converted motorcycles , etc . , that are not designed to be ATVs . They will be too heavy , have much too large of an engine , and be a safety problem .
As you will note , the 38305 vehicle code clause reflects California State law which " states " you may never drive faster than is safe or prudent . Most of the accidents are from excessive speed . We have a State law that also makes it illegal to drive faster than 15 MPH within 50 feet of a campsite or group of people .
In our State Vehicular Recreation Areas , we have initiated an interpretive program for safety - awareness . We have had two rangers certified as chief instructors from the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America . These rangers have gone on to teach other rangers the course , thereby making them instructors .
We have the all - volunteer dune patrol at Pismo to help out in accidents , education , resource monitoring , and public service . AB 2235 ( proposed ) would fund nonprofit organizations for safety education .
A standardized signing program is underway within DPR which will provide consistent safety and interpretive signing off road throughout the State of California . This will include all agencies that receive OHV funds through the grant process including the Federal Government .
Some parks set aside areas for ATV use only , to keep the users separate from 4 - wheel drive vehicles , motorcycles , etc .
The Commission is proposing mandatory helmet legislation for State Vehicular Recreation Areas . The use we are experiencing and the diverse riding areas we provide indicates a need for public awareness , user participation , and actual education which we are attempting to provide . I am sure that after you review the accompanying data you will reach the conclusion that we have known for some years ; that a comprehensive education plan along with manufacturer cooperation will yield much more benefits than any other option .