Colorado Counties Want ATV Laws Expanded

Four counties in southwestern Colorado that passed a law requiring driver’s licenses and liability insurance for ATV riders want the state to enact similar requirements.

Officials in San Juan, Hinsdale, Ouray and San Miguel counties enacted the stricter law in 2006 to maintain safety on the Alpine Loop, a scenic, rugged trail through the San Juan Mountains that links Silverton, Telluride, Ouray and Lake City that has become a popular tourist attraction.

State law does not require liability insurance and allows children as young as 10 to operate ATVs.

A ranger last year issued 250 warnings and 15 citations, which carry a $150 fine. Officials say many visiting the area are caught off-guard by the local requirement and have threatened to visit other areas of the state.