Atlanta council OKs increased fines for ATV drivers on public roads

First-time violators will face a $750 fine.

First-time violators will face a $750 fine.

The Atlanta City Council adopted a measure Wednesday to increase fines for driving an ATV on city roads.

The ordinance, introduced by Councilwoman Joyce Sheperd, comes after a recent flood of ATVs on public streets.

The rules state first-time violators will be fined $750. The fine increases to $1,000 for a second offense, and 30 days to six months in jail for the third offense. Four or more offenses warrant 60 days to six months in jail.

Numerous arrests for traffic violations related to riding off-road vehicles have been made recently,but police generally do not engage in chasing riders because it's too dangerous.

Many residents and commuters find the behavior, which can involve large groups of drivers running red lights and driving on the wrong side of the road, hazardous.

Last week, Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields told council members she supported the legislation.

Like Intown Atlanta News Now on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter

Previous coverage: