NC H1183

Defines "modified utility vehicle" as a motor vehicle designed for off-road use and manufactured with equipment required under G.S. 20-121.1(2), excluding all-terrain vehicles, golf carts, utility vehicles, and riding lawn mowers.

Modified utility vehicles may be operated only on streets and highways with posted speed limits of 55 miles per hour or less, with permission to cross intersections where speed limits exceed 55 miles per hour.

Modified utility vehicles must be equipped with headlamps, stop lamps, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rearview mirrors, windshields, windshield wipers, speedometer, seat belts, and vehicle identification number.

Registration and insurance fees for modified utility vehicles equal the fee for private passenger vehicles of not more than 15 passengers, except rental vehicles which are charged at U-drive-it automobile rates.

Modified utility vehicles must be registered and insured in accordance with existing motor vehicle statutes, and the Department of Transportation may prohibit their operation on any road or highway when necessary for safety.