Off-Road Vehicle Safety

Freedom, excitement, kicking up dirt on the trail

Riding off-road vehicles such as snowmobiles, dirt bikes, ATVs, golf carts and dune buggies, can be fun and exciting, but it has risks. Fortunately, most of them can be avoided by following some simple safety tips each and every time you ride. Here are a few suggestions that will help keep you protected while you're on the trail.

How to get an off-road vehicle insurance quote

Before You Ride

Be prepared.

Ask your local dealer about the laws and regulations in your area. Do your best to protect and preserve the areas where you ride, and be sure that you only ride where off-road vehicles are permitted. Read your owner's manual and make sure you have it, a small tool kit and key spare parts with you when you're riding.

Gear up.

Every time you ride, be sure to wear the proper protective gear in case of an accident. A DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, a sturdy jacket, long pants, boots and gloves are your best bet for optimum protection.

Check it out.

Be sure to check that your off-road vehicle is running properly before hitting the trail. Always check controls, lights, fuel and oil levels, switches, chain, driveshaft, tires and chassis before you head out. Follow the recommended service schedule for your off-road vehicle and be sure to have all repairs made by an authorized service provider.

Be protected.

In addition to operating your off-road vehicle safely, it is also important to have proper insurance coverage to protect your investment, and provide liability coverage in case someone gets injured or property is damaged during the use of the vehicle.

On the Trail

Stay off the road.

Remember that off-road vehicles are meant for just that - operation off pavement and public roads. You should never operate your off-road vehicle on these surfaces as it may be illegal, as well as dangerous. Your off-road vehicle may be difficult to control on pavement, which could result in an accident.

Maintain control.

When riding, it is very important to maintain a speed that's right for the conditions and your experience. Be aware of current terrain, visibility and weather conditions. Always be alert, and scan your surroundings for potential hazards or obstacles.

Ride Safe

Practice.

Find a safe place to practice braking, turning and improving your reaction time. Any practice you can get will help to improve your skills and make you a better - and safer - rider.

Learn more.

Improve your riding skills by taking a training course before going it alone on your off-road vehicle. Also, make sure that your off-road vehicle is properly licensed or registered if it is required by your state.

Be sharp.

Alcohol, drugs and fatigue can all impair your ability to reason and make sound judgments. Ride only when your senses are sharp. And do not drink or do drugs then drive.

Go it alone.

Never carry a passenger on your off-road vehicle. Additional weight can greatly affect the handling of your off-road vehicle and could potentially cause it to go out of control.

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