What rules will apply to using an ATV on public lands in Iowa?

A: I'll set the rules out below. I'm writing this blog in 2011 so make sure you check the DNR site for any updates. Link to the Iowa DNR website.

GENERAL RULES
1.   Registrations must be current and carried on the operator or machine.
2.   Machines must display a valid IDNR decal.
3.   Nonresident machines must display a nonresident IDNR user permit.
4.   Helmets are required for all operators and passengers on riding areas and parking and loading areas.
5.   Passengers are only allowed on machines which are designed by the manufacturer to carry a passenger. Riding double on all other machines is prohibited.
6.   Users of the park must comply with all posted signs.
7.   Hours of operation are sunrise to sunset, unless posted differently.
8.   All machines must have working brakes. If the machine is being operated between sunset and sunrise, or in otherwise dark conditions, then the machine must be equipped with a working headlight and taillight.
9.   All vehicles and trailers must be parked in designated parking areas and may not be left unattended in any park drive access.
10. Unauthorized vehicles and hauling equipment may be towed at owner's expense.
11. Operation in a careless, reckless, or negligent manner, or at excessive speeds, is prohibited.
12. Operation of a machine while under the influence of alcohol or narcotics is prohibited.
13. Sound level limits are enforced. Aftermarket products may exceed acceptable levels (96 decibels).
14. Consumption or possession of alcohol in the designated riding area is prohibited.
15. Pets are not allowed in designated riding areas. They are permitted in parking areas.

AGE CONSIDERATIONS FOR ATV RIDERS
1.   Operators age 12 - 17 must carry a valid education certificate.
2.   Operators under the age of 12 must be under direct supervision of an adult with a valid driver's license.

OPERATION WITH PASSENGERS
1. Number of passengers cannot exceed manufacturer's recommended capacity and the number of restraints designed and installed for the vehicle.
2. For an ATV or motorcycle, the passenger must be seated behind the operator and have the ability to securely hold on to the passenger handles or operator.
3. For an ORV, a passenger must be able to place both feet flat on the floorboards with their back resting against the seat back.
4. A valid driver's license is required to operate an ATV or motorcycle when operated with a passenger.
OFF-ROAD UTILITY VEHICLES (ORVs) REQUIREMENTS
1. Operator must possess a valid driver's license.
2. The vehicle must be equipped with a roll-over protection system (ROPS) installed by the manufacturer.
3. The vehicle must be equipped with manufacturer seat belts or equivalent that are in good working order.
4. Passengers must wear seat belts at all times and must keep feet and hands inside of the vehicle while the vehicle is in motion.
5. Vehicles cannot be home built or substantially modified from the manufacturer's specifications.
6. The vehicle cannot be wider than 62 inches.

For good advice see a lawyer and if you have questions about this blog, the law or your case write or call me directly. Steve Lombardi, sdlombardi@aol.com and 515-222-1110. I handle all types of personal injury cases including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, workers' compensation cases. We help truckers all across the country who come through Iowa and end up in an accident. If we need other lawyers from other states we hire them and it costs you no more than what you would pay us; in other words, we split the fee between us. So call 515-222-1110 or email us at sdlombardi@aol.com.
Steve Lombardi, Attorney