With school letting out and summer getting underway, safety officials are reminding families across Northwest Georgia to use caution when riding ATVs and other off-road vehicles.

Dozens of serious ATV crashes happen each year in Georgia, both on trails and on public roads. Officials say many of those accidents involve riders not wearing helmets, carrying extra passengers, or operating vehicles on paved highways where ATVs are generally prohibited.

Georgia law restricts most ATVs from operating on public paved roads and highways. Riders are also reminded that all traffic laws — including distracted driving and DUI laws — still apply when operating off-road vehicles.

Safety experts strongly recommend wearing a DOT-approved helmet, along with goggles, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots while riding. Bicycle helmets are not considered adequate protection for ATV use.

Families are also encouraged to follow manufacturer age recommendations. Federal guidelines prohibit dealers from selling adult-sized ATVs for use by children under 16 years old.

Officials say riders should never carry passengers on single-rider ATVs and should avoid riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Hands-on safety training is also encouraged for both children and adults. Riders can find certified ATV safety courses through the ATV Safety Institute and locate approved riding areas through the U.S. Forest Service, including trails in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Authorities say the safest place to ride is on designated off-road trails and private property where riding is permitted.