If you’re going to be a first-time rider on an ATV, then it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with just some basic safety tips before you take off down the trail. Riding ATVs is one of my favorite things to do, and they obviously look like a ton of fun, right? Well, I had a buddy get hurt once when we were out cause he just plain and simple wasn’t being safe out there. The truth is that no matter how much you think you’re in control, these are heavy pieces of machinery that can really hurt you if you’re not careful. So, do yourself a favor and read up on the quick safety tips for ATV riders below.
1. Every rider gets a helmet
Yeah, it is probably hot outside and wearing one will make you all sweaty, but if your ATV rolls or throws you off and into a tree, you will be so thankful that your head is protected with a helmet. If it makes it more tolerable, head down to the local Pep Boys or other auto shop and pick up some cool stickers to put on the helmet so that it looks kinda cool.
2. Don’t try to pile everyone on the same ATV
In most cases, you can really only get two people on the same ATV. If you try any more than that, you end up with not everyone being able to hold on securely when riding. And that is just a recipe for disaster. You need to make sure that each rider can stay securely seated while in motion, which means to limit the number of riders on each ATV.
3. Protection wear is a must.
Have you ever seen those people who get on an ATV with cargo shorts and no shirt? Heck, you might even be one of them! Listen – don’t be that guy, seriously. Sure, accidents do not happen every day, but when they do, you will be in a heap of hurting if you’re not wearing the proper gear. So, always wear long pants and shirts with long sleeves. You should also consider putting on gloves and some eyewear protection before you set off.
It doesn’t take a lot of extra effort or money to be safe out there. And really, why not do it the safe way so that you can continue riding ATVs for many years to come?
Patricia Anderson says
We really needed the reminder that you shouldn’t have more than 2 people on an ATV at one point. Typically when we go on family outings it is more common to see 3 or 4 on one ATV especially if it is just a little ride. I’ll be sure to share this information with my family at future family vacations. Hopefully this will make our ATV trips safer!
Mighty Peace Powersports says
ATV’s are a whole lot of fun but it’s important to remember basic safety and these tips are spot on. Thanks for posting!
Scott Adams says
I’m glad that you talked about only having two people on an ATV so everyone will be able to stay secure. My friends want to go ATVing this weekend, and I wanted to know how to stay safe. I can see how I should be sure that only two people stay on one, so nobody accidentally falls off and gets hurt.
Ridley Fitzgerald says
Thanks for the ATV tips. My son just barely went on one for the first time, and now he’s begging us to buy one. We’re thinking of giving in, but we want safety to be a priority. I’ll be sure to buy helmets for everyone, like you said!
Alexandria Martinez says
Getting a Can-AM has been a big dream for my brother since he was a teenager in high school. He still would love to get one and has been looking pretty thoroughly recently. I want to make sure that he stays safe, so when he uses it I will tell him to wear proper safety gear.