ATV Safety Tips

ATVs are as fun as they are useful, and many owners place great value on their quads. But as is the case with all powersports vehicles, riding an ATV comes with certain risks. Rider error is one of the biggest causes of accidents, but even things like maintenance issues, poor trail conditions, and inclement weather can be dangerous.

A few simple tips can make you much safer on your ATV. We’ve listed our most important safety tips below. Read on to learn more, and when you’re in the market for a new ATV, stop by Harold Implement Company. Our location in Paragould, Arkansas proudly serves the areas of Jonesboro and Pocahontas, Arkansas, as well as Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Invest in Safety Equipment

Without a roll cage, seat belts, or airbags, an ATV doesn’t offer the same protections to riders as a car does. For that reason, you’ll have to rely on your safety equipment to keep you out of harm’s way. It’s best to invest in quality equipment. A helmet is the first piece of safety equipment any rider should begin with. Your helmet should fit your head correctly without being too loose or tight, and without restricting your vision. If your helmet doesn’t come with eye protection, make sure you pick up a high-quality set of goggles with anti-fogging and anti-glare coating.

In addition to your helmet, you’ll need to protect your extremities, too. The footwear you choose will probably depend on the type of riding you do. The high-top, lightweight riding boots are a good choice for casual ATV riders. If you use your ATV for hunting and fishing, you might want to go with some hiking boots. Pick up some gloves with shielded fingers to protect your hands from stray branches, rocks, and other debris.

Maintain Your ATV

Keeping your ATV in good condition is one of the most important elements of safe riding. All it takes is a small malfunction to distract you and cause a driving error. That’s the best case scenario. A blown tire at high speeds could cause a crash or rollover. Before you ride, make sure you perform a quick inspection of all the major system and parts. Make sure the tires are properly inflated and in good condition. The engine fluids should be topped off, too, and the brakes should be functioning without excessive noise or grinding. It’s helpful to take your ATV into the professionals on a regular basis to make sure everything is in good condition.

Make Smart Choices

As previously stated, rider error is one of the most common causes of ATV accidents. While you ride, it’s crucial that you make smart decisions. One of the most obvious, and yet often ignored rules you should follow is to not use intoxicants before or while riding. Drugs and alcohol reduce your reaction time and reduce your ability to judge risk. Even your prescription medications could make riding hazardous, so always check with your doctor about operating powersports vehicles while on medication.

If you want to ride with a passenger, make sure your ATV is approved for it. Many ATVs are only designed for one rider and become extremely difficult to control when other riders are thrown into the mix. Finally, try to familiarize yourself with the trail on which you are going to ride before you go full speed into the wilderness.

Know Your Limits

One of the most difficult parts of safe riding is knowing your own limits as a rider. We all have finite abilities, and sometimes we like to push the envelope for a thrill. This is especially true of young riders and new riders. But usually it’s when we are trying to push the envelope that things go wrong. It’s important to learn how to develop your skills in safe ways if you want to become a better rider.

Riding your ATV can be hazardous, but it can be much safer if you follow a few simple rules. If you’re in need of ATV maintenance, stop by Harold Implement Co. in Paragould, Arkansas. We proudly serve the areas of Jonesboro and Pocahontas, Arkansas, as well as Poplar Bluff, Missouri.