Here is a concise guide to being the most courteous and polite off roader you can be. Use these guideline recommendations as you see fit, and feel free to print them out.
1. TRAIL ORGANIZATION
The Trail Spotter is there for you! His or her only purpose is to help eliminate on trail traffic jams and to provide a vehicle to follow for those unfamiliar with the trails. A single voice reduces confusion, especially in an emergency. The Trail Spotter can and will assist when possible. The Trail Spotter may call for drivers' meeting at any time. This is to get input or to let you know about something important - be there or be square!
We use CB channel 8, unless the Trail Spotter specifies an alternate. It is not mandatory for anyone to have a CB, but it makes life simpler if you do. You'll enjoy the trip more as well. Be sure it's in good working order BEFORE the run!
The last vehicle becomes "Tail End Charlie". This vehicle must always have a CB radio and know the group's destination. A winch is recommended. Tail End Charlie should immediately report any problems slowing or stopping the group.
2. SAFETY
For their own safety, children will not be permitted to roam the trails freely. The combination of a child's reduced stature, rough terrain, and lifted trucks with factory equipped marginal brakes is a recipe for disaster. If you cannot escort your children at all times please leave them in the truck.
If you're uncomfortable, ask for help! Contrary to the "macho" image, we routinely have experienced members walk or talk drivers through the tough spots. Just ask! You may be assigned a guide even when you don't ask because someone outside your vehicle can see obstacles you can't. We expect you to respect your guide's opinions. If in doubt - wait for help!
Without radio's, you MUST maintain visual contact with the vehicle directly behind you. If you can't see it, stop! If everyone follows this rule, any stopped vehicle will halt the entire group without further instructions.
Maintaining contact via radio instead of visual contact allows the group to keep a greater (dust free) separation. If you have a radio and can maintain communications with the vehicle behind you, this is an acceptable alternative to visual contact. (NOTE: We still recommend you stop at all trail junctions until the following vehicle can see you!)
Driving under the influence of alcohol and hallucinogenic drugs is absolutely forbidden! No alcohol is permitted in Tellico ORVA. The Rangers at Tellico take this rule very seriously. When caught, you will not only face fines levied by the Rangers, but you will also be asked to leave that particular trail event, and will be excluded from any future trail events.
3. STOPPING
If you have to stop or leave the run, let the Trail Spotter know! You are encouraged to leave any run you are not comfortable with. Do not try and show off by exceeding the capabilities of you or your machine. When stopping, leave the trail passable for other travelers by parking to one side whenever possible.
Potty stops - normally its boys to the left, girls to the right. Radio for a break anytime you need one. It's not good to fool Mother Nature.
4. MANNERS
Don't litter! Carry out your drink cans, food wrappers, cigarette butts, broken parts . . . everything!
Keep your dog on a leash. This rule is lax - UNLESS your dog becomes a nuisance.
In light of extreme - sometimes insane - environmental pressure for land closures, it is particularly important not to be destructive when off-roading. Stay on the trails! Be friendly and courteous to any folks you meet. Suggest to others that they should do the same.
When encountering horseback riders, pull over and stop your engine.
Trail repairs and road crews - Many hands make the work easier, so if the Trail Spotter calls for a road crew, lend a hand.
Unless otherwise posted, quiet time is from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.!
