Safety First: Essential ATV Safety Tips Every Rider Needs to Know

Riding an ATV is both adventurous and exciting. Plus, it's fun to do with a group of friends, or even with your kids!

But every year, there are about 100,000 injuries from ATV accidents. Just like any vehicle, there are certain ATV safety tips to follow to make sure you're traveling safely.

One study showed that injury rates have remained steady over the years. This can be attributed to lack of education, preparedness, and safe riding practices.

If you play it safe and follow the rules, nothing should stop you from having a safe and fun time on an ATV.

But what are those safety tips? If you're new to the sport or you're a veteran, make sure you follow these safety tips while you ride.

Wear Protective Gear

Anytime you take your ATV out for a spin it's important to wear all the right protective gear. And remember that just wearing a helmet is not enough!

Helmet

Your helmet is arguably the most essential piece of gear, but it's not the ONLY important gear. And you can't just wear any old helmet.

Make sure that your helmet is either DOT-certified or certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation.

DOT is the Department of Transportation, and anyone who drives an ATV, motorcycle, or any other motorsport vehicle, should be wearing the right helmet.

If you ride with your children, get your kids four wheeler helmets as well.

Over-The-Ankle Boots

If you want to protect your ankles and feet, you need protective footwear. On an ATV, you'll be traveling over all sorts of terrain, a lot of which is muddy.

Make sure that your boots have rubber soles or ones that give them a good grip. Make sure they aren't too tight. And for added comfort and protection, make sure your pants are tucked in so that there isn't any exposed skin.

Goggles

Many ATV trails are ridden with branches, rocks, dirt, and bugs. Keep your eyes protected and free from debris by wearing goggles.

Long-Sleeve Shirts and Pants

By covering your arms and legs, you'll further protect yourself against abrasions, scratches, and cuts.

Gloves

Gloves protect your hands against calluses and thumb fatigue. They'll also protect against muscle cramps and sore joints, especially if they're full-fingered.

Try to find a pair with palm padding, which will prevent your glove from bunching up at the grip and will make gripping your ATV handles much more comfortable.

Inspect Your Ride

Before you take your ATV out, give it an inspection, every single time.

Check your tires for wear and tear and make sure that air pressure follows the manufacturer's recommendations.

Move your handlebars from side to side and make sure there aren't issues with steering or mobility.

Make sure all your fluids, like gas, coolant, and brake fluid, are all full.

Avoid Paved Roads

Some states do allow ATVs on paved roads. However, many states do not as it makes for a more dangerous ride.

ATVs are designed for off-road use. On a paved road, there is more of a chance they'll collide with another vehicle or roll over.

Avoid paved roads whenever you can.

Don't Ride by Yourself

Any sport or activity that can be dangerous should never be done alone. Try to go with a riding buddy, every time you take out your ATV.

Getting lost, getting in an ATV accident, or running out of gas could be detrimental if you're alone.

Don't Drink and Ride

Drugs and alcohol impair your judgment. Don't do it before or while you ride. Don't put yourself or others at jeopardy because of driving while impaired.

It's as simple as that.

Only One Rider per ATV

Unless your ATV is specifically built for 2 or more, don't let anyone else hop on your ride. Even if you feel like there's room for someone else, or if it's only a short trip, don't do it.

It isn't worth the risk.

Ride Where You're Allowed

When you take out your ATV, stick to designated riding areas. This is for the safety of yourself and others. Plus, it prevents unnecessary wear and tear to your vehicle.

It's a positive reinforcement to show good sportsmanship. So if you aren't following the rules or are riding where you shouldn't, you'll make all ATV riders look bad.

Don't Do Tricks

Don't push yourself beyond your abilities or push your ATV to see what it can or can't do.

Trust your instinct and follow the rules of the manufacturer. Nothing's worse than sustaining a serious injury, all because you were goofing off.

Ride the Right ATV for You

Children's ATVs have safety features that adult ones don't. Don't put your child on an ATV that isn't the right size and make.

Be Aware

There are many reasons to buy an ATV, from wanting to connect to nature or setting your kids up to be great drivers. Just make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings and safe practices while you ride.

If you do put kids younger than 16 on an ATV, make sure you supervise them the entire time. Be aware of your surroundings and set an example by following all the tips that you ask your kids to follow.

Don't go too far off the beaten path, and make sure you pay attention to the changing terrain.

Get Insurance and Educate Yourself

Just like you would with any other vehicle, get insurance for your ATV so that if something does happen, you'll at least have insurance.

Enroll in an ATV safety course, even if you think you know it all. And if you do know it all, enroll your kids in a safety course so that they can begin their ATV journey the right and safe way.

ATV Safety Will Make Riding More Fun

ATV safety is essential in making sure you don't injure yourself or others. ATVs are a great way to explore and have fun while doing so.

But if you don't follow the proper safety tips, you could be putting yourself and others in danger.

Set an example to your kids by riding the right way!

Do you want to know more about ATVs and discuss which one might be right for you? Give us a call or stop by!