While recreational vehicles can be a source of great fun and excitement, it is also important to keep in mind the physical dangers posed by these items.

All-terrain vehicles, in particular, can be challenging to ride. As spring approaches, it is worth refreshing your memory on what exactly you should do to keep safe while riding an ATV.

Passengers

Many younger adults who use ATVs often assume it is fine to have another person next to them while riding. This is never true. These vehicles can hold one person only, and squeezing a passenger between or next to your seat may put you at risk for serious injuries, according to Kid’s Health. The weight from the other passenger is likely to put the ATV off-balance, which leads to wrecks and other safety hazards. Considering ATVs are often weigh over 600 pounds, your control over the vehicle is nothing to gamble with.

Age limit

Riding ATVs together is a fun day activity for a whole family. Unless you have children who are sixteen or older, however, you should be wary of whether or not they should ride alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that only teens over the age of sixteen should operate an ATV. In some states, you must have a safety certificate beforehand in order to prove you can ride.

Appropriate dress

Long pants, gloves, boots, and long shirts are all highly recommended for riders, due to the rough terrain often encountered while on an ATV. The most important part of your outfit should be your helmet and eye protection, which is necessary to operate this vehicle. Keeping your head and limbs covered helps protect you in the case of a fall or other injury.