ATV Safety: Summer Riding Tips

Summer is the best season to explore, experience, and enjoy revolutionary adventures such as all-terrain vehicle riding. The thrill of driving into mud holes, wide forest trails, dry sandy tracks, grass fields, and going up the hills makes ATV riding enthusiasts give in to danger and sometimes forget precautionary measures. While this is the peak riding season, this is also the time to review ATV safety tips.

Based on the 2020 report of the Consumer Federation of America, there have been 217 reported ATV fatalities from January 1 to August 2.

If you are using your vehicle to drive for work or simply to enjoy an outdoor adventure, there are three crucial things to check to ensure proper ATV safety.

Know your vehicle

ATVs are perfect for off-road trails, single roads, and making quick turns. The majority of the time, these vehicles are used for trail riding or racing. Though some ATVs are modified, the base unit is equipped with a handlebar for control and steering, straddle seat, motor, and huge tires. The vehicle is open, meaning no windows, doors or seat belt, which makes adventure riding even riskier. These vehicles are designed for off-road surfaces, not paved and public roads.

Vehicle safety precautions should be observed before going out. Check all parts, especially the tires, brakes, gas, steering, and lights. Always bring a tool kit. These vehicles are ideally ridden by a rider with no passengers. Knowing how to go about the necessary repairs in case of vehicle malfunction is a required skill.

Being involved in an accident which causes death, injury or damage to a property is a possibility. Such an incident can result to a massive financial liability if not properly insured. Sante Fe Toy Insurance provides a detailed overview on what you can avail as part of your insurance coverage.

Be familiar with the terrain

If you are using the unit for light work, you will most likely travel the same trail day after day. Familiarize yourself with the territory and landscape. Remember where the ground holes and unsafe passages are.

If you are into an adventure ride, it is best to undergo terrain orientation. If a travel guide is available, get one. Guides are essential not only for direction but for safety as well. If you are traveling on your own, make sure you have done comprehensive research about the location.

Enroll yourself in an ATV safe driving course. Going through the course will help you learn all there is to know about ATV driving. It is also advisable to practice driving in locations you are already familiar with.

Being aware of where the danger is will lessen the probability of accidents, injuries, even deaths.

Use protective gears

Responsible riders ensure personal safety before taking the vehicle for an adventure ride. It is highly important to wear the following protective gear when riding an ATV.

• A helmet that is certified by the Department of Tourism, Snell Foundation, or American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
• Googles
• Gloves
• Long pants
• Long sleeves
• Boots

Special Conditions

The Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that a minor be at least 16 years old before driving an adult-size ATV. ATV for adults has an engine of 90cc. If you are considering buying an ATV for your kid, make sure that the following specifics are considered:

• Type of ATV
• Engine size that is appropriate to the age of the operator
  • Ages 6 – 11 can operate an ATV under 70cc
  • Ages 12 – 15 can operate an ATV between 70cc – 89cc
• Power and speed
• Adult supervisory controls
• Drive mechanism
• Suspension systems
• Brake and foot controls
• Heat and burn prevention
• Carrier racks

Your child must be physically and emotionally fit to ride an ATV. Physical readiness includes the size, strength, and visual sensitivity and coordination of the child. His emotional development will be assessed based on his discipline, ability to focus, reasoning capacity, and decision-making capability.

For adult riders, your safety is your responsibility. Precautionary measures are available either online or onsite. Being prepared for unexpected riding conditions makes you one step ahead of not incurring an accident. Following all preventive measures makes you two steps ahead of avoiding accidents.

About Daniels Insurance, Inc.

At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.