ATV/UTV Safety
Ever since their development during the latter part of the 20th century, powersports vehicles like all-terrain and utility terrain vehicles (ATVs and UTVs, respectively) have only become more popular with both recreational riders and professionals in a variety of industries. Regardless of how you use them, it’s very important to know how to operate your ATV or UTV safely in all circumstances. These vehicles present some dangers and require more preparation on your part than driving a car does.
Langston Motorsports is your southern California ATV and UTV dealer, located in the city of Perris. We want to make sure that all of our customers stay safe while riding their powersports vehicles, so read on to learn the basics of ATV and UTV safety.
Wear The Right Gear
It’s essential to wear the proper gear when riding in or operating an ATV or UTV. This includes wearing a protective helmet that’s rated for high-impact extreme sports riding, like a motocross or motorcycle helmet. You also want eye protection from flying debris, so wear a pair of goggles if your helmet lacks a full facemask.
The rest of your attire should be protective without being oppressive. Long sleeves and pants made of sturdy material will protect your skin from abrasions and from the sun, while gloves and boots will protect your hands and feet and help you maintain control. Younger riders should be outfitted with chest plates and other protective gear as an extra precaution.
Keep Your Vehicle Maintained
You wouldn’t drive your car without ever getting the oil changed or checking the tire pressure. Your ATV or UTV also needs to be properly maintained in order to serve you well without breaking down. Peruse your owner’s manual to see what’s recommended for your particular model. You’ll want to take note of any oil changes you get or repairs or parts that you replace. Check the tire pressure before each ride and make sure your gas tank is always full. You should also check lights and signals to make sure they work correctly.
Ride Responsibly
While you’re not subject to normal traffic rules when riding an off-road vehicle, you’re still going to have to follow some basic courtesies, as well as some guidelines for safety. For one thing, you’ll want to always be sober and alert when driving your powersports vehicle.
Using alcohol or recreational drugs before your ride will lead to a loss of focus and a resulting loss of control that can cause a serious accident. So just as you don’t drink and drive your passenger car, don’t drink and try to drive your powersports vehicle!
If you use prescription medications that preclude your ability to operate heavy machinery, check with your doctor to see whether it’s permissible for you to use your vehicle. You shouldn’t try to drive your ATV or UTV while sick or exhausted, either, since you won’t have the focus and quick reaction times necessary to keep yourself and those around you safe.
Be sure to remain vigilant as you ride, watching for animals, hikers and other obstacles that may cross your path. If you’re riding on an established trail, stick to the bounds of it. Trying to go off the trail can not only do damage to the surrounding environment, but it can result in you hitting an unforeseen obstacle and wrecking your ride.
If you use your vehicle for towing, make sure that you aren’t overloading it with more than it can haul. You could end up tipping over as you try to turn with too much weight or ruining the suspension of your vehicle.
We hope this guide helps you to adequately prepare yourself and your family for riding your powersports vehicles. Still in search of the perfect off-road vehicle? Visit our dealership in Perris, California, today to check out our full stock of new and used ATVs and UTVs for sale in many styles. Contact our parts and service departments if you need some maintenance on your powersports vehicle to make it safer for your next ride. Langston Motorsports proudly serves all of our Orange County customers, as well as those in the city of Temecula, California.