10 ATV Safety Tips For Beginners

Have you ever been curious about how to ride an ATV? If you already own a motorcycle, there’s a good chance that the opportunity to ride one will come up. All states require a license in order to operate an ATV on public land. That license requires passing a safety course. You can take an online ATV course Oregon or Delaware, as long as you choose the one specific to your state (regulations can differ).

Here are ten basic safety tips you to give you a primer on ATV riding:

1. Most state laws require that all riders under 18 wear a helmet while riding on public land. They advise all riders to wear helmets at all times regardless of terrain or conditions.

2. All ATV riders under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult at all times. That adult must have passed the ATV course and hold a valid license.

3. Prior to riding an ATV, a rider should always perform an inspection of the vehicle. Ensure that the brakes are operating properly and that the tires have proper air pressure.

4. Prior to riding in an unfamiliar area, all ATV riders should inspect the area and manage debris. Always check familiar areas after there has been a storm or some other significant event.

5. Wear protective clothing at all times. In addition to guarding the head, protective clothing should cover the hands, knuckles, feet, ankles and lower legs. Full body protection is not a bad idea.

6. You must be able to see to ride properly. Most helmets have built-in eye protection. Whenever the view area becomes dirty to the point of obstruction, stop to clean it.

7. Always ride with the correct posture: Head and eyes up, looking ahead. Relax shoulders and bend the elbows out slightly. Hands on the handlebars and feet on the footrests at all times.

8. Never ride with a passenger, whether on the seat or the handlebars. An ATV requires the driver’s weight to shift in order to steer properly, and that is not possible with a passenger.

9. Never drive intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. This is against the law and it is highly dangerous. Even small amounts of alcohol can significantly impair your judgment.

10. Brake carefully by releasing the throttle, shifting to a lower gear, and then applying both the front and rear bakes equally. Never ride so fast that you are not comfortable performing all of these steps.

Summary

Remember, knowing is only half the battle. It is up to you to apply this knowledge each time you ride. Do not become the experienced rider who lets experience override common sense.

*** This post is courtesy of ATVcourse.com, a provider of online ATV operator training ***