ATV Safety

At times, we forget how dangerous ATVs can be. No matter whether you’re a novice to ATV riding or a seasoned powersports professional, safety should always be your top priority. There are several dangers associated with operating an ATV. In the worst cases, ATV accidents can result in permanent injuries or even death. Fortunately, most ATV mishaps can be avoided with proper planning, the right safety equipment and responsible riding behavior.

Here at Rick Case Honda Powerhouse, we have put together a brief guide to help you learn how to stay safe on your ATV. Following these recommendations ensures that you’ll have the right gear and the right mindset to ride your ATV safely, whether you’re off-roading, working on the farm or heading to the track.

Wear Proper Protective Apparel

An important aspect of ATV safety is protective apparel. More than half of all ATV riders have been thrown from their vehicles at some point, making it imperative that proper safety gear is worn at all times while operating an ATV.

The single most important piece of equipment is a well-fitting helmet. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet that’s rated for high impact extreme riding conditions. Motorcycle helmets and motocross helmets both qualify for this.

If your helmet doesn’t have a full face mask, you’ll also need to invest in a pair of goggles to protect your eyes from branches, debris and anything else the road kicks up that could impair your vision.

Riding gloves, pants, boots and a long-sleeved jackets will make up the rest of your safety apparel. You want to be both comfortable and protected whenever you’re on your ATV.

Maintain Your ATV

You don’t want to be hitting the trails on your ATV only for a tire to blow out on you or your brakes to malfunction. That’s why it’s essential to perform routine maintenance on your ATV. Stick to a schedule as much as possible and perform a pre-ride inspection before every trip out

Some ATV maintenance tasks can be easily taken care of at home if you have the right tools. Use a tire pressure gauge to make sure your tires are properly aired up to the owner’s manual specifications before each ride. Check the oil on a regular basis and change it at least once a season, more if you ride in very dirty conditions often. Make sure that your lights and signals function well and that no unusual noises are emanating from your ATV as you ride. If you spot pooling fluids beneath your quad when it’s in the garage, this could mean that there’s a leak in your radiator that needs addressing.

Follow Best Practices

There are a few basic principles you’ll want to follow when operating your ATV. Most of them you already follow when driving your passenger car.

For example, don’t use your cell phone while you’re riding. Wait until you are safely stopped and off the path to make a call, send a text or check your map.

Don’t drink alcohol or use recreational drugs before or during your ride. Alcohol impairs your reflexes and makes you more prone to take risks, which can lead to an accident.

Don’t overload your ATV with an extra passenger if it’s not built to accommodate two people. Most ATVs are designed for only one rider. Overloading your ATV will change how it moves, accelerates and brakes, and you might not be prepared for this. The effect will be most pronounced when you’re taking tight corners as you will realize that you don’t have the same control as you do when riding alone. Extra weight also increases your risk of suffering a tire blowout which is particularly dangerous on uneven terrain.

Know The Rules and Your Own Limitations

Before you head to a new off-roading area or trail, brush up on the rules for that region and any laws you need to adhere to. For example, many ATVs should not be ridden on highways, so you’ll have to transport your ATV to riding areas with a trailer.

When taking a new trail, go slowly so you can make changes in your riding style to adjust to obstacles and difficult patches. Don’t attempt to perform any tricks or riding feats beyond your skill level. Showing off can get you in real trouble.

Finally, make sure that you’re not riding yourself ragged. Take frequent breaks to give your muscles a chance to rest and allow yourself to relax. You can use these opportunities to drink water and have a snack so you’re properly hydrated and fueled up for the next leg of your ride!

Often, ATV accidents are the result of people failing to drive responsibly or properly prepare themselves for their ride. If you follow the advice outlined above, you should be able to keep your ATV in great shape and properly equip yourself for a fun, safe off-roading adventure. In the market for a new ATV? Visit our Davie dealership to see our wide selection of new and used ATVs for sale, including Honda models. Rick Case Honda Powerhouse proudly serves the cities of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.