How to Stay Safe on an ATV

Oct 20, 2010
Toby Welch

ATV Rider - Ltz Raptor

All-terrain vehicle riding is one of the fastest growing pastimes. But the vehicles can be very dangerous if not ridden and used properly.

All-terrain vehicles come in a variety of sizes and power. They range from 50 cc's to over 800 cc’s. They can weigh over 350 kg. ATVs have either three or four large, low-pressure tires.

Gear to Wear When Riding an ATV

Wearing the proper gear when riding an ATV increases your chances of staying safe. Whenever possible, wear the following:

Helmet – Pick one that is geared for ATV usage. Make sure it fits correctly and is securely fastened. A full-face helmet is ideal.
Clothing – Long pants and a long sleeved shirt or jacket is the best choice. Do not wear baggy clothes. Bright clothing will make you more visible.
Gloves – A good pair of gloves will not only keep your hands from getting sore but will protect them from scratches.
Eye Protection - You need to protect your eyes and regular sunglasses and a helmet don’t offer enough protection when on an ATV. Good goggles treated with anti-fog spray will improve your visibility.
Boots – Boots with laces securely tucked away are your best bet.

Protect yourself from head to toe.

Children and ATVs

The Honourable Brooke Taylor, past MLA for Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley in Nova Scotia, pointed out, “The days are gone when a parent can buy a high-powered ATV and simply hand over the keys to children. Riding is a privilege."

ATV owners are asking for trouble when they put children onto a vehicle that is designed to be used by adults. People under the age of 16 just don’t have the motor skills and knowledge that is required to safely operate an off highway vehicle.

To deal with this issue, smaller ATVs have been made for children. But they can’t just hop on them and go. Review the safety information with kids – usually there are safety stickers on the machine to remind users of vital information. Teach them how to use the controls, how to brake, how to turn, how to back up, etc. Make sure they have the proper gear. Consider additional gear such as chest, elbow, and knee protection.

Most importantly, emphasize that the ATV is not a toy and it can be very dangerous if used incorrectly.

ATV Safety Issues

There is much more to consider when staying safe on your ATV:

Fit guidelines - ATVs come withfit guidelines. This does not mean you need to make sure your clothes are the right size. Fit guidelines mean that you are the right size to fit the ATV you intend to ride.
Doubling up - The majority of ATVs have been made for a single rider. Adding a passenger, no matter how big or small they are, is a recipe for disaster. Only double up if the manufacturer specifically states passengers are allowed.
Dusting - Some ATVers think it is cool to pull the “dusting” trick when riding. Dusting involves passing other ATV riders at a high speed and leaving them in a cloud of dust. For obvious reasons, dusting is not a good idea. Avoid stunt-riding altogether to ensure you get home at the end of the day. Doing wheelies or jumps is not a good idea.
Drinking and driving - Drinking alcohol or taking drugs is a factor in more than 40% of all ATV fatalities.
ATV maintenance - Like your car, an ATV needs proper maintenance to keep it running safely. On a regular basis, check to make sure the tires are inflated to the correct p.s.i. and aren't worn out. Double check that all the controls are working as they should. Make sure there are no fuel leaks or oil leaks. Check the brakes; do they need to be replaced? If your ATV has a chain, check its lubrication and ensure it isn’t worn. If you have the feeling something is wrong with the ATV, have it inspected.
Safety kit - Taking a safety kit when ATVing ensures you are prepared in an emergency. The kit should include first aid items, a flashlight, a map, compass, waterproof matches, a basic repair and tool kit, and a towrope. Throw some snacks and extra water in the kit before heading onto the trails. Taking along a cell phone is also a good idea.
ATV course - Why take an ATV safety course? Because by doing so you will decrease your chances of an accident due to driver error, a common cause of crashes. And people who take a course are almost five times more likely to wear a helmet. In a course you will learn the basic techniques of ATV riding, hill and obstacle riding, stopping, starting, making turns, and safety issues. While not mandatory – YET – an ATV safety course will show you how to get the safest yet most enjoyable ride out of your off-road machine.

More ATV Safety Tips

SMARTRISK, a national Canadian charity dedicated to preventing injuries, offers these additional suggestions:

• If you are unfamiliar with the area, carry a map of the trail or area you intend to travel. Getting lost can result in your trying to navigate areas above your skill level in an attempt to get back.

• Know local weather conditions. Weather has a dramatic affect on the trails. Dress and equip yourself appropriately for the weather. Also, try to keep your speed equal to the conditions. Know your abilities.

• Be aware of the potential hazards in your riding area. If you don't know the area, find someone who does and ride with them the first few trips.

• Maintain a safe distance between riders. Tailgating can lead to collisions and injuries just as it does with automobiles on the road.

For additional information: