Riding four-wheelers and other all-terrain vehicles is a popular pastime for many in rural areas, and such vehicles are important for farmers and ranchers to use on the job.
But riding them at high speeds or driving them while drinking can result in serious accidents, just like any other vehicle.
In Texas and Arkansas, riding ATVs on public roads is a misdemeanor that comes with a fine, but both states allow some exceptions.
In Texas, the vehicles are allowed on roads if the operator is a public utility worker, a law enforcement officer, or a farmer or rancher traveling fewer than 2 miles.
"We don't see a lot of accidents, but we do enforce the laws regarding four-wheelers and other ATVs," said Capt. Jeff Neal, chief deputy for Bowie County Sheriff's Office.
Arkansas also allows all-terrain vehicles to be operated on public streets and highways if they are used in farming or hunting operations where street travel is necessary to get form one field to another. They may also be driven across the street or highway to get from one area to another, and they must yield to all oncoming traffic.
When driving an ATV on public roads, the operator must wear a helmet, travel at a reasonable speed in accordance with the surrounding circumstances and use headlights at dusk and dark.
Laws prohibit children younger than 14 from operating ATVs without parental supervision.
The following safety rules are recommended by ATVsafety.org.:
Do not carry passengers, as ATVs are designed for one person.
Wear a helmet with eye protection.
Wear non-skid, closed-toe shoes.
Wear long pants and a long-sleeve shirt.
If you are new to the sport, attend an ATV driver's safety course.
Stay on the trail. Riding off trail and causing damage is why many trails are being closed to the public.
Dont drink and drive.
Operate an ATV that is right for your size.