Riding an ATV requires more discipline than maneuvering a mere automobile or a motorcycle. And as such, drivers should take safety precautionary measures seriously.
1) Read the owner’s manual. This is the most basic thing that a rider should undertake, especially the first-timers. You are required to be familiar with the vehicle, its parts and how it should be operated. Being familiar with it will enable you to take things properly and avoid unnecessary actions that might eventually put your life to danger. There cannot be a standard manual for all models, so it is always important that you read before riding, even if you think you already have enough experience in riding it. In addition to that, you can also discover what are the other things you can do with the unit, such as attaching trailers and other implements that are specific to your tasks.
2) Conduct a thorough ocular checkup. You have to make sure that all safety locks and bolts are properly in place to ensure that everything is well adjusted to avoid any untoward incident. More importantly, you have to check the tires and the wheels, controls, oil and fuel, lights and switches, chain and drive shaft, and the chassis. Refer on your manual for a detailed checklist of the parts that should be properly attached. Also, don’t forget to bring with you a complete tool kit, including the manual of your vehicle.
3) Carry out a short testing around less mountainous terrain. Before going for a long ride, try to operate the vehicle on a smooth surface or floor. This is simply to ensure that everything is in good condition and that there is no sign of a breakdown in any event. Check the brakes and try turning the vehicle. Also, practice riding before going off, just like a warm-up before a long exercise. Make sure that you are also in good condition to operate the unit, and in good spirit to face the odds of going through rough terrain.
4) Wear proper clothing and gears. Gearing up is also a way to avoid further injury if anything unexpected happens. Remember to wear safety gears such as helmets or eye protectors that meet safety standards established by the government. Sunglasses cannot be used as a substitute for safety goggles, as they may even worsen the circumstance. In addition, wear the appropriate attire including gloves, safety boots, long pants, and a long sleeved shirt, whenever possible. Expect that you will feel vibrations while you maneuver the ATV. Oftentimes, too much vibration can affect a driver’s concentration especially when he or she is driving through rough and edgy surfaces. If possible, see to it that your racing gears are padded on areas such as the knees, elbows and shoulders.
5) Observe balance and positioning when adding an implement. Several models are equipped to pull trailers and loads of various weights. However, the braking power of an ATV can only do so much so the rider must ensure that the load is not more than what the vehicle is capable to manage a safe stop. Proper balance should be maintained between the trailer load and the tongue weight. Also, when mounting chemical sprayers for farm use, make sure that you put them in safety racks to avoid spilling.
Spilling off the contents of your fertilizers or pesticides will not only cause you to incur losses but may also endanger one’s health and living conditions in the area. Safely detach all implements and remove chemicals carefully before placing your vehicle to a final stop. ATV sales will keep going up as long as people will remain cautious and take safety precautions seriously. Any incidences may not only discourage people from using them and buying them, but may also prompt policy-makers to enforce stricter policies and guidelines in allowing the use and marketing of these off-road vehicles.
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