What South Carolina drivers need to know as UTVs become road legal

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - Starting Nov. 18, certain utility terrain vehicles, also called UTVs or side-by-sides, can legally drive on some public roads in South Carolina once they meet specific requirements.Until then, driving a UTV on the road is illegal and subject to citation, according to the S.C. Department of Public Safety.What counts as a UTV under the lawThe law defines a UTV as a side-by-side, four-wheel-drive, off-road vehicle meant to carry people, cargo or both. To qualify, the vehicle must have:A top speed over 55 mphAn engine of at least 450 ccA gross vehicle weight rating of 4,000 pounds or lessA width of 80 inches or lessA steering wheel and non-straddle seatsWhat a UTV needs to drive on the roadTo drive on a public street or highway, the UTV must:Be titled and registered with the S.C. Department of Motor VehiclesHave liability insuranceHave working headlights, tail lights, brake lights and turn signalsHave Type 2 seat belts at every seating positionDisplay an official licen