Safety is the most important thing to consider when riding an ATV. Roaming around in your ATV is an extremely fun and exciting experience, but if you do not follow safety rules and ride responsibly, you are likely to get hurt, or worse. In this article we are going to give you some helpful safety advice so you can avoid any accidents with your ATV. Some of these things will probably seem like no brainers, but they are things that can always use a little repeating.
To begin with, wear all of the proper gear necessary when you ride your ATV. Also, never show off or mess around while on your ATV. Be responsible, both by yourself and around others. There is nothing wrong with a group of friends riding ATVs together, but do not try to do any stunts that you know you are not capable of, and do not try to ride on any terrain that is not in your ability. People tend to act tough around their friends, but in situations like this it is simply asinine and impractical to do so, and it could mean your health.
Some more essential ATV advice: never ride your ATV under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs. When you do drugs, your motor skills and ability to judge distance are impaired, and these are essential to ATV riding, and driving vehicles in general. If you want to drink, then stay home. ATVs and drugs simply do not go together. Also, remember to respect the land and wildlife wherever you ride. ATV trails are a privilege, not a birth right. If enough ATV enthusiasts abuse the trails, they will eventually no longer exist. Set a good example for other ATVers and do the simple things like don't litter, if you bring it in with you, bring it out and always stay on the designated ATV trails.
Because a few ATVers didn't have the commonsense the majority of ATV owners have, many states have enacted rules that require helmets, goggles, and even safety courses. Make sure you know the current statutes for your state.