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While riding an ATV can be a thrilling experience, it can also be a dangerous one - especially if you're not properly educated beforehand. In fact, around 100,000 ATV riders are injured each year. Before you hit the trails or a course, check out these ATV safety tips.
1. Take an ATV safety course
You can sign up for a hands-on ATV training course. In it, you'll learn how to control your machine in a wide variety of situations. And, you'll be safer for it. ATV drivers who've taken hands-on ATV safety courses have a lower risk of injuries than those who haven't taken a course.
2. Get your ATV gear on
Grab a helmet. ATV accidents often cause head injuries. Wearing a helmet can reduce the severity of injuries. But, don't just grab any helmet. Make sure yours is certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation and/or the Snell Memorial Foundation.
The need for gear doesn't stop there. Make sure you're wearing boots, goggles, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. That'll help you avoid road rash if you take a tumble.
3. Say no to passengers
Most ATVs are designed for only one person. Having a rider makes it difficult for the driver to control the ATV, especially when terrain varies and speed is involved. Stay safe by riding alone.
4. Stay on the course or trail
Many deaths involving ATVs each year occur on paved roads. There's a reason: ATVs are made for trails and courses, so they can be difficult to handle on paved roads. Don't drive your ATV on paved roads.
5. Keep kids safe
More than 9 out of 10 ATV-related accidents involving children occur because the ATV is too powerful. If you want your child to ride an ATV, make sure you have the proper, age-appropriate machine for them.
6. Don't drink and drive
Driving an ATV requires your full attention, and alcohol and drugs impair your reaction time and judgment. Just say no to drinking when you know you'll be driving an ATV.
Sources
- "Quick Facts For a Safer Ride." CPSC.gov. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 06 Sept. 2016. Web. 12 June 2017.
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Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. is not licensed in New York state. Insurance products are not obtained through the Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. in New York. Costco Wholesale, Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not underwrite insurance, pay claims or guarantee any of the products or services. Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. (CIA), a licensed insurance agent, may receive compensation.
This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. We do not make any guarantees or promise any results based on this information. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites that may be linked in this article. This article does not afford, offer, or guarantee any coverage.