ATV Safety Tips

Spending the weekend on your ATV, touring back roads and exploring slickrock can be great fun. However, problems can arise along the way like mechanical issues, getting lost, or getting injured. We’ve got ATV safety tips to help you have fun and avoid trouble on your next outing.

Know Where You’re Going

If you’re exploring a new area, make sure to have a map or trail app download that works even when service isn’t great. An even better idea is to have both! If there are trail signs, make sure you stop and look at them; this ensures you know which way to go.  Don’t assume.  Use the information provide for you by the trail associations, use maps, and use common sense. If you’re unsure, go back to the last location you WERE sure about, and start from there.

Have Extras

Make sure to have extra gas and repair tools with you at all times.  Know how to make simple repairs to your ATV in case of an emergency.  While ATV tires will last quite a long time, there are some maintenance issues you should check on and address before big trips. For more details on those, click here.

Food and Drink

Make sure to have snacks, water, etc., on hand. Not only are these just nice to have for a day out on the ATV, they will become important if something happens and someone has to hike out to find help. You’ll want to keep a few extra “emergency” bottles of water on hand for these types of situations, uncommon though they may be.

Let Someone Know Your Plan

Make sure you share your trip plans with someone. That way if you haven’t returned by the time you were supposed to, someone will know where to start looking. Even if all is well and you just lost track of time, it’s a good idea to have someone around who knows your plan and can assist if needed.

Ability

Finally, always stay within your ability level. Of course we all want to challenge ourselves, but there’s challenging yourself and there’s attempting something you know is beyond your skill level. Be smart, know your limits, and play safely.  We hope these ATV Safety tips help keep you and your loved ones safe.

If you’ve been injured in an ATV accident due to someone else’s negligence, call us. We’d love to help.