ATVs are some of the most popular and enjoyable recreational vehicles out there. Hitting the open terrain is especially popular during the warm, summer months. Whether you’re a beginning rider or a veteran, it’s important to learn about proper ATV safety, or touch up on your knowledge as rules and regulations change. Below, our experts at CFMOTO will discuss tips to stay safe while driving your ATV.
● Use Protective Gear
Wearing protective gear while riding your ATV can be the difference between a small injury and a fatality if you get in an accident. The most important piece of protective gear that all riders should wear is a helmet. Additionally, goggles, over-the-ankle boots, gloves, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts go a long way toward protecting your body from any cuts or wounds that could occur in an accident or if you brush against something while riding. All the gear you purchase should also be approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
● ATVs are Meant for a Single Rider
While there are multi-rider ATVs available, for the most part we only sell single-rider ATVs. Most of these recreational vehicles are designed to carry a single passenger who turns the machine by adjusting his or her weight. The weight of an additional person can throw off how the vehicle turns, which could cause an accident if the rider is not aware the extra weight inhibits how the machine operates. Other recreational vehicles, such as side-by-sides, are generally designed for multi-person use and can be safely ridden by more than one person.
● Children Should Not Operate ATVs
No matter how safe or cautious you think you’re being, you should never let your child operate or ride along on an ATV. Children do not have the weight, agility, or necessary skill set to drive a small or large ATV. Research conducted over several years showed that one-third of ATV-related emergency room visits, injuries, and deaths involve children. These injuries and accidents can be prevented if children are not allowed to operate these recreational vehicles.
Contact CFMOTO Today
If you’re looking to purchase an ATV, side-by-side, or other recreational vehicle, contact your local CFMOTO dealer today. Additionally, if you’re looking for expert safety tips and information on safety gear, contact your local dealer. To learn more information or contact a representative, call 763-398-2690, or message us on our contact page.