Riding an ATV is a whole lot of fun, but also very dangerous. Whether you are a new rider learning for the first time or an ATV veteran, here are some tips for staying safe on your off-road adventures:
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Wear protective gear.
Helmets, goggles, boots and gloves are essential. There are no seatbelts or windshields on ATVs, so you need to be prepared in case of falling, flipping, or getting hit with rocks, branches or bugs.
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Do a pre-ride inspection.
Before jumping on your ATV for a joyride, check the tires and rims for damage, ensure all cables are intact, examine the chain for worn links, and ensure there's enough lubrication where there needs to be.
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Never ride alone.
Crashing, getting lost, running out of gas, and other accidents happen, so it's always a good idea to have other riders with you. You should also be sure to carry a cell phone or walkie-talkie so you can call for help in emergency situations.
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Don't drive under the influence.
Drinking and driving is not safe in a vehicle. Alcohol impairs your reaction time, thinking process and judgment, so never operate any vehicle after you've been drinking.
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Take a break.
ATV riding requires strength and mental acuity. If you begin to feel fatigued while riding, don't push yourself. Take a break, rehydrate, and eat some food to reenergize before your next ride.
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Allow only one rider at a time.
Most ATVs are designed for only one rider at a time, so inviting passengers to jump on with you can be dangerous. Always choose to ride solo because the weight of two or more people will make the ATV more difficult to control.
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Ride in appropriate areas.
ATVs are not designed to be driven on roads and streets. It's best to seek out designated riding areas because riding on improper terrain could cause damage or increase the likelihood of rolling your ATV.
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Be aware of the surroundings.
Don't be oblivious to potential hazards. Take time to learn where steep hills, bumps, sharp turns and other tricky areas are. Also be attentive and focused on steering clear of other riders.
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Ride the correct size.
Don't attempt to ride an ATV that is either too big or too small. If the size isn't a good, you could either have great difficulty controlling the vehicle or increased chances of flipping and falling off.
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No stunts.
ATV stunts are dangerous, so never ride beyond your ability or try anything you know isn't safe.
Remember to make safety your first priority.
Cloverleaf Insurance can insurance your off road vehicles as well as your on road vehicles.
Call us now 1-800-530-5822