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ATV Accidents
Take Safety Serious This Spring
SAFETY TIPS:
Riding an All Terrain Vehicle or ATV is a popular recreational activity as the weather warms up. Because an ATV is a heavy piece of equipment that can travel at high speeds, riders should follow safety recommendations to avoid accidents that can cause serious injury and even death.
- Do not carry passengers unless your ATV is designed for more than one person.
- Only ride an ATV that is appropriate to your size, according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Stay on marked trails and obey trail signs. Avoid public roads.
- Operate the ATV at recommended speeds, taking into account trail conditions and visibility.
- Avoid riding at night when visibility is poor.
- Always wear a helmet, eye protection and proper clothing.
- Never use alcohol or other drugs when operating an ATV.
- Fatigue can also affect your ability to operate an ATV. If you are not adequately rested, stay off your ATV.
- Take an ATV safety course offered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
WHY OPERATING AN ATV CAN BE A RISKY BUSINESS
- Laws governing ATV operation vary within and across states, causing confusion and misunderstanding.
- Youth under age 16 who are not licensed to operate a car can legally operate an ATV on off-roads.
- Insurance coverage is not required for ATV operation.
- Many riders fail to wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing.
- Most ATVs are not made or designed to carry passengers.
THREE-WHEELERS POSE SPECIAL DANGER
In 1987, ATV manufacturers agreed to stop producing three-wheeler ATVs because of their high incidence of rollovers and injuries. However, because existing three-wheelers were not recalled, millions of these unsafe vehicles remain in use across the United States. If you choose to operate an ATV, make sure it's a four-wheeler.
Find ATV safety information and links to ATV safety courses at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ohv/safetyfirst.html on the DNR web site
