In recent years, the words "4-wheeler" and "kids" conjured visions of injury and mayhem. Safety equipment, technology and available safety classes, in addition to the newer units built for kids to ride have made 4-wheelers a cool way to get the kids out of the house, and away from the television. In families where the adults have 4-wheeler s also, it is a means a family can spend quality time together.
What should you do if your kid wants a 4-wheeler? First, purchase a 4-wheeler that is appropriate for the size of your child. It may seem frugal, but buying one large 4-wheeler for everyone in the family to share is simply not safe. Your child has to be able to control the 4-wheeler on rough terrain without getting injured and a 4-wheeler that is too large for your child can get away from them or otherwise cause injury. Many manufacturers of larger 4-wheelers, such as Kazuma or Yamoto, also manufacture a smaller model geared toward children.
Second, create ground rules. One of the key ground rules should be adult supervision at all times. 4-wheelers can be tricky to master, even for adults. To expect a child to be able to intuitively know what they are doing is unfair to the kid, and can cause injury. Another important ground rule is to prohibit riding on roadways. In many places riding a 4-wheeler on the road is illegal, however; your kids depend on you to inform them of the law.
A third way to make sure your kid uses the 4-wheeler in the safest manner possible is to make sure your kid's have the right equipment. Purchase a helmet with a chinstrap that is sturdy and fits the kid's head properly. Purchase goggles if the helmet has no visor. Invest in padded clothing for added protection to the legs and arms. Use gloves to protect the hands. Explain that riding in sandals, sneakers or barefoot is unacceptable. Insist on the proper boots for 4-wheeler riding.
Many 4-wheeler manufacturers have begun to offer safety courses to anyone who purchases their products. Make sure you and your kid enroll together. If there are no classes offered in your area you can contact an organization such as the ATV Safety Institute, or a Quad Club in your area for lessons on safety and technique. Another avenue you can take is to contact your local Bureau of Motor Safety or Department of Motor Vehicles in your area. Most importantly, teach your kid how to have fun on their 4-wheelers in a safe, responsible way.
