UTV Safety Tips
Whether you’re exploring the trails on the weekend or hauling equipment on a job site, your utility vehicle always delivers reliable performance. For the most part, you can rely on your side-by-side to do all the heavy-duty work for you! However, there are some things that require some extra effort on your part. It’s essential that you, your friends, and family members practice safe riding when you’re on your UTV. Regardless of what you use your utility vehicle for, safety should always be a top priority.
Power Sports Abrams is your premier UTV dealer in Wisconsin, which is why we’ve put together this brief guide to UTV safety. If you have any questions or if you’re searching for some quality UTVs for sale in Wisconsin, visit us at our dealership in Abrams.
Gear Up
One of the most important ways to remain safe on your side-by-side is to protect yourself with the right safety gear. Helmets should always be at the top of your safety gear checklist. Make sure you and your passengers have helmets that are appropriate for UTV riding. Motocross helmets are ideal because they’re lightweight and breathable, while still offering the level of protection required in an open-air vehicle that rides in extreme conditions. If you choose a helmet without face protection, then you should consider getting goggles to avoid getting dust and debris in the eyes.
It’s worth mentioning that every rider should be wearing gloves, long sleeve shirts, pants, and sturdy boots. Be sure that your UTV is equipped with a first-aid kit as well so you can easily deal with cuts and scrapes that might occur while riding.
Supervise Children
There are laws in some states with age restrictions for riding a side-by-side, many of which may require your children to take a safety or training course. You’ll need to supervise your children so you should ride next to them and guide them. Teens might be able to operate a UTV on their own depending on their age. You’ll still want to keep an eye on them and make sure they know what they’re doing and where they’re going. If they plan to leave your line of sight, be sure that they’re wearing the proper gear and are aware of safe riding practices.
Follow the Trail
As tempting as it might be to stray into the forest or hills and abandon designated paths, it’s best to stick to the established trails. You don’t want to be held responsible for any damage to fragile ecosystems with your vehicle. Additionally, the path is designed so you can go fast while still being safe. On the other hand, unseen obstacles off the trail, such as holes or ditches, can damage your vehicle, or worse, cause an accident and injuries.
Always Drive Sober
Whenever you ride a UTV, it’s absolutely crucial that you’re completely focused and able to handle any problems or obstacles that you might face. It should come as no surprise that it is forbidden to drive a side-by-side under the influence of alcohol, just as it is with any other vehicle. Keep in mind that there are many other substances that can impair your judgment and be a recipe for disaster on the trails. Do not attempt to operate your UTV if you’ve taken prescription medications or recreational drugs. An important way to keep yourself and your passengers safe is to make responsible decisions, which includes being sober when you drive.
If you’d like to learn more about UTV safety or if you’re still shopping around for the perfect side-by-side for sale in Wisconsin, get in touch with us at Power Sports Abrams. We proudly serve all those in Green Bay and Appleton.