Riding an ATV is a lot of fun and millions of people enjoy using one of these fun machines for work or play and in many cases: both. ATVs are built with more safety features than ever, but the greatest responsibility for being safe still falls on the rider.
Many of the injuries that have occurred with ATV riders could have been prevented through knowing how to operate their machines safely. The following are things you should never, ever do on your ATV:
*Never ride without your helmet and goggles. Make your personal safety a priority.
*Never allow children and young people under the age of 16 to ride adult ATVs (with engines bigger than 90 cubic centimeters).
*Never operate an ATV without proper instruction. Training classes are available nearly everywhere and many times they are free or just a nominal charge. Well worth the price to learn ATV handling skills and techniques.
*Never allow children to ride their ATVs without adult supervision.
*Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this shouldn't even be an issue, but recent studies show over half of all ATV accidents had drugs and/or alcohol involved. No matter who you are or how much you think this doesn't apply to you: No one under the influence has good judgment.
*Never drive an ATV with a passenger, and never ride as a passenger.
*If you must ride alone, Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Even better, leave a map detailing your route. Cell phones may or may not be able to get a signal in remote areas.
*Never leave trash behind, if you bring it in with you, bring it out with you is a good policy to follow.
*Never ride on another's land without asking. Some folks just aren't too accommodating to ATV riders (they've obviously never driven an ATV or they'd be opening new trails all over)!
*Never disregard your State Laws and Regulations for riding ATVs. This can cost you, in the most literal sense of the word. Getting a ticket and taking time to go down to the courthouse and pay it is a big time waster when you could be riding your ATV. Avoid the trip and follow the rules.
Now that we've told you what you should never do on your ATV, remember these "do's and don'ts" be safe and have fun!
