Summer is almost here!
Usually that signifies and upcoming increase in ATV riding. As fun as that is, it can also be risky.
Use these tips to reduce some of the risk, keep yourself safe, and still have fun when you hit the trails this summer:
- Take a hands-on safety training course. Formal training teaches drivers how to control ATVs in typical situations. Drivers with formal, hands-on training have a lower injury risk than untrained drivers.
- Always wear protective gear, especially a helmet. Select a motorcycle or other motorized sports helmet and make sure the helmet is certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation. In addition, wear over-the-ankle boots, goggles, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
- Don't drive with a passenger or ride as a passenger. ATV drivers must be able to shift their weight freely in all directions, depending on the situation and terrain. Passengers can make it difficult for drivers to maintain safe control.
- Don't drive on paved roads. ATVs aren't street-legal in most states, and there's a good reason: Most of them have a solid rear axle with no differential, which can make them difficult to control on paved roads.
- Don't let children drive or ride on adult ATVs. About one-third of ATV-related deaths and emergency room injuries involve children, most of whom were driving or riding on an adult ATV. For children under 16, operating or riding on adult ATVs makes them twice as likely to be injured as riding youth ATVs.
- Don't drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This one should go without saying. Good reaction time and judgment are just as essential to safe ATV use as they are to everyday driving.