CPSC Proposes Safety Standard for Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is proposing a new mandatory safety standard for recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) (here). Under the proposed rule, ROVs would have to meet lateral stability and vehicle handling requirements, vehicle speed limits when seat belts are unfastened, and a barrier or structure to prevent the ejection of an occupant in the event of a rollover. Comments on the proposed rule are due Feb. 2.

The proposed rule defines ROVs as “a motorized vehicle designed for off-highway use with the following features: four or more wheels with pneumatic tires; bench or bucket seating for two or more people; automotive-type controls for steering, throttle, and braking; rollover protective structure (ROPS); occupant restraint; and maximum speed capability greater than 30 mph.” CPSC said ROVs are similar to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), except they have a steering wheel instead of a handle bar for steering, foot pedals instead of hand levers for throttle and brake controls, and bench or bucket seats instead of straddle seating. ROVs also only require use of the steering wheel to steer the vehicle, as opposed to ATVs which require riders to move their body when steering.

(Federal Register 11/19/14)