Archive for the 'ATV Safety' Category

ATV Safety


ATVs are a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with your family and friends.  ATV safety is an often overlooked issue that really needs to be addressed with everyone riding ATVS.

ATVS have vey powerfull engines with very short wheel bases.  Riders need to have a good understanding of their machine and ride only ATVS that are approved for their own ages and body weights.

Nearly one third of all yearly ATV injuries are from children under the age of 16.  Many of these reported accidents were from children operating ATVS that were not rated for there age .

Some major reasons for accidents were, no helmet, excessive speed, and riding on a paved road, and excessive speed.

Children who are operating ATVS should take proper safety training and always be supervised by an adult.  In today’s busy world it is very easy to turn your child loose on their ATV.  Make sure that your child has the proper ATV accessories for safety.  Their helmets should be DOT Approved.

Other safety factors that should be followed are no tandem riding, no operating  ATVS under the use of alcohol or drugs.

You should be familiar with your owners manual prior to operating your ATV.  You should always do a pre inspection to the machine prior to riding. 

Never ride on trails or terrain that is above your skill level.  Never ride your ATV alone.  If an accident should occur you need to have assistance getting help and administering first aid. 

Always have a riding plan.  Never take off on a ride without letting someone know your time of departure and when you plan on returning.  If you have a cell phone, place it in a dry bag and either stow it in a storage compartment in your ATV or place it in a zippered garment.

Unnecessary accidents can be avoided by following good safety guide lines, riding  on trails that fit your experience level, no improper riding techniques, and never ride alone.  Never let children ride their ATVS un supervised.

Following some simple safety rules along with good training will greatly reduce your risk of accident.

Please check your state laws regarding rider education and liscencing.