Riding an all-terrain vehicle safely in cold, rainy, snowy weather could be possible if you know and follow recommended winter ATV safety tips. These tips can help you make your ride safe for yourself and your passengers. They can benefit riders of all ages and sizes and increase awareness of proper ATV use in tough weather.
If you take all the recommended precautions and are involved in an ATV accident due to someone else’s negligence, you could be entitled to financial compensation. An Atlanta ATV accident lawyer can help you pursue the at-fault party. They will collect evidence, prove financial liability, and take on the insurance company.
Proper Training is a Primary Winter WTV Safety Tip
Riding an ATV in winter versus summer is a very different experience. For winter use, your all-terrain vehicle should be properly maintained to withstand snow and ice. Proper training includes learning ATV safety techniques, including:
- Age-appropriate riding techniques
- Object and obstacle avoidance
- Appropriate engine braking
- Familiarity with all ATV controls
According to Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines, hands-on training from a qualified instructor is a crucial factor in being prepared to handle your ATV on varying winter surfaces.
Proper Outfitting and Attire is a Key Winter ATV Safety Tip
Safety gear to protect your head and body is important when riding at any time of year. Winter weather, though, can require additional outfitting to help you withstand the wind and weather. This can include:
- Gloves and hand warmers
- Appropriate, well-fitted helmet
- Eye protection
- Well-fitting boots
- Long, tear-resistant pants
- Long-sleeved, tear-resistant shirt
Inspect, check, and double-check your riding gear before and after each ride to ensure each piece is in proper working order and meets your specific needs.
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Choose the Right ATV Size for Winter—and Year-Round—Use
While they might be used by minors, ATVs are not toys, and choosing the right size can make all the difference in their safe use. ATVs are typically sized by the age of the rider, with the most common sizes being:
- Small ATVs with a maximum speed of up to 32 mph and a recommended rider age of between six and 12 years old
- Mid-sized ATVs with a maximum speed of up to 73 mph and a recommended rider age of between 14 and 16 years old
- Large ATVs with a maximum speed of up to 81 mph and a recommended rider age of 16 and older
ATV size can accommodate larger or smaller hands and feet and limit engine size and available speed. Check your ATV for size recommendations to determine the best fit for you or a loved one and avoid many common injuries from ATV accidents.
Clear and Non-Negotiable Ground Rules Can Make Winter ATV Use Safer
For children and adults, riding an ATV can be thrilling and exhilarating. It can also be safe and fun with the appropriate ground rules in place.
- Never ride without a helmet and protective gear
- Never overload the ATV with passengers
- Never ride on paved surfaces or public roadways
- Never use an ATV after over-consumption of alcohol
Regardless of age, ground rules are an important part of safe ATV use. Adults should implement and follow all ground rules to set an example for younger riders.
Winter ATV Safety Tip: Maintain a Safe Speed
Just because your ATV can reach a certain number of miles per hour does not mean you have to travel at the highest speed. Similar to safely driving a car in inclement weather, operating an ATV requires caution. During winter weather, you should:
- Adjust speeds to meet road and weather conditions
- Refuse to drive when vision or visibility is compromised
- Operate in low gear to maintain speed and momentum
You should also maintain a healthy ATV battery and a spare. Make sure both are fully charged and ready for use at all times.
Choose the Right Winter Accessories for Your ATV
Accessorizing your can include onboard and offboard tools and rigging. To be prepared for many eventualities, the following accessories are recommended:
- Tire chains to help you navigate rough winter terrain
- An engine block heater to make starting your ATV easier in cold weather
- Handlebar muffs to increase your grip and dexterity
- A windshield to limit the impact of wind and chill
- A winch kit to help get your ATV moving if it becomes stuck in the snow
You should also pack a winter safety kit that includes a repair kit, a foldable shovel, traction pads, and a tool kit.
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Winter ATV Safety Tip: Carry a Fully Stocked First Aid Kit
First aid skills are a good idea for everyday use. ATVing, though, is a fast-moving sport, so carrying a first-aid kit is critical. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Red Cross recommendations for a fully stocked kit include:
- Adhesive cloth tape
- Antibiotic ointment and wipes
- Aspirin
- Assorted bandages and gauze
- Breathing barrier
- Cold compress
- Compression dressings
- Emergency blanket
- First-aid guide
- Hydrocortisone
- Non Latex gloves
It should also contain a thermometer, tweezers, and miscellaneous items that fit your specific needs. It is also an important safety tip to review and restock your first aid kit regularly.
Carry a Fully Charged Cell Phone on Every ATV Excursion
Even for a short excursion on an ATV, you should always carry a cell phone and an extra charger with all the necessary cables and connectors. Store your fully charged cell phone in a watertight, shatter-proof case. Also, avoid taking photos and videos or other activities that could drain the phone’s battery.
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Contact Our ATV Accident Team if You Were Injured in a Collision
If you followed all the recommended winter ATV safety tips and were injured anyway because of someone else’s negligence, our Atlanta personal injury lawyers will seek compensation. We will identify the cause of your accident and take on the at-fault party and their insurance company.
Learn more about how hard we fight for injured clients by contacting our case evaluation team at Kaine Law today.
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