Interpretation ID: nht95-3.62

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: July 28, 1995

FROM: T. J. Sommer -- President, White Bear Sales

TO: Taylor Vinson -- NHTSA

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO 9/19/95 LETTER FROM JOHN WOMACK TO T. J. SOMMER (SEC. 30162(a)(6); A43; REDBOOK 2)

TEXT: Dear Mr. Vinson,

I was directed to you for information regarding the legality of licensing four wheel all-terrain vehicles.

White Bear Sales Inc. is the U.S. distributor of a three wheel police vehicle classified as a "motorcycle" by the DOT, CARB and EPA. Our vehicle is street legal and licensable and has been emission certified.

The City of Chicago Police Dept. is using a number of four wheel all terrain vehicles for patrol work within the downtown area. These vehicles have been issued Illinois State license plates and the officers are using them on public roadways.

We believe that these vehicles are illegal to use on the streets. The City of Chicago is placing their employees at high risk by allowing officers to operate this unit on their routes. The director of Chicago's fleet asked me to compile all federal def initions and statutes which apply to the quad runners, regarding classification, certification, and compliance for street use.

Would you direct me to this information or send me a copy of the statute(s) that apply to licensing (or proof that it is not licensable) for this type of vehicle? We would appreciate any pertinent information regarding this topic.

Phone: 414-466-6868 Fax: 414-466-6936

Thank you in advance for your help.