UTV Safety Tips
One of the most loved aspects of UTVs is how versatile they are. You can enjoy them out on the trails for recreational fun, or put them to work when you need to complete challenging tasks. There is one thing that remains the same regardless of what you use your UTV for and that’s the importance of safe riding. When it comes to safety, there are some responsibilities that you need to tend to. We’ve put together some helpful information to ensure you’ll have a safe ride every time you head out in your side-by-side.
Drive Sober
It should go without saying that any time you choose to operate a side-by-side, you should be completely sober. You need to be totally focused and ready to handle any obstacles or issues that might come up. It’s probably no surprise that driving your UTV while under the influence is forbidden, just as it is with other vehicles. Remember that being sober doesn’t only refer to refraining from alcohol. You should also not operate a side-by-side if you have taken any drugs or prescription medications that impair your judgment or motor skills. The best way to ensure that you and your passengers are safe is to be responsible, and this includes being sober while driving.
Gear Up
A major part of remaining safe on your UTV is to protect yourself and your passengers with proper gear. Helmets should always be worn by anyone who rides on the vehicle. You should make sure that both you and your passengers are wearing helmets that are DOT-rated and appropriate for UTV riding. These types of helmets are breathable and lightweight, yet they still offer the protection that’s required when riding in an open-air vehicle that is exposed to extreme conditions.
On the topic of gear, every rider should be wearing gloves, long sleeve shirts, pants, and closed-toe shoes or boots that extend to the ankle. Boots are recommended due to the lack of sidewall making you vulnerable to any obstacles that you might encounter on the edge of the trail. Your UTV should be equipped with a first-aid kit so you can deal with any cuts or scrapes in a pinch.
Stick to the Path
It can be pretty tempting to veer off the path and explore the nearby forests or hills, but it’s best to resist the urge. When you’re riding a UTV, specifically on public lands, it’s much safer to stick to the designated trails. You don’t want to be held responsible for any damage you caused to delicate ecosystems. The path is also predictable so that you can hit high speeds while still being safe, which is not a bad trade-off. When you leave the path, you risk running into unseen obstacles like holes or ditches that can damage your vehicle and even lead to an accident or injuries.
We hope that this UTV safety guide has been helpful. For all your UTV needs, visit Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, IL. We welcome all those coming from Chicago, IL, and Milwaukee, WI.