ATV Child Safety Information
ATVs, or all-terrain vehicles, are great for recreational use, but what if you have children? Should they be able to ride with you or drive their own vehicle? Continue reading to learn more about safely including your kiddos during your ATV adventures!
Who Should Ride?
While there are no federally regulated limitations for who can and can’t ride an ATV, individual states can have their own guidelines. For example, some areas may require a rider to be over the age of sixteen while others allow children as young as ten to ride with adult supervision.
Even if it’s legal for your child to ride an ATV, it’s important to consider everything involved with ATV riding. It is not recommended for anyone under the age of 16 to operate a four wheeler. The vehicle itself can be too powerful for younger children to handle. Someone should only operate an ATV if they are comfortable, confident, and can safely control all aspects of the vehicle.
It’s also important to consider the safety of your child riding as a passenger. Some models aren’t meant to carry anyone other than the driver and if an accident took place it might be more difficult to quickly recover from the situation.
It’s ultimately a family decision, but always check your local regulations and follow them closely.
Riding Guidelines
Anyone who operates an ATV should be familiar with safe riding practices. Riders should complete a training course to learn how to properly operate an ATV and should only ride models that are appropriate for their size and skill level.
Gear
Riders need to have the appropriate riding gear every time they get on an ATV. This includes: a well-fitted helmet, eye protection, gloves, long pants, long sleeves, and close-toed shoes. Wearing the right clothing and equipment can prevent scrapes, cuts, and severe injury.
Timing
ATVs should be operated only during daylight hours. Full visibility is extremely important! Because ATVs have high power and a high center of gravity, they can easily be tipped or rolled. Daylight allows riders to see upcoming obstacles and concerns.
It’s also important to only operate an ATV with a clear mind. The influence of alcohol, drugs, and even emotions such as anger or sadness can greatly affect your actions, decision-making, and reaction time. Always be in a focused and clear state of mind before twisting the throttle.
Location and Speed
ATVs are not meant to be used on paved roads. You should always follow posted signage and stay on designated trails. Stay within suggested speed limits, and if none are indicated, stay within your skillset! Excessive speed can easily result in accidents.
First Aid
No matter how cautious you are, it’s always possible to encounter minor injuries. Riders should have a basic understanding of first aid and be able to treat minor cuts, scratches, and sprains. Keep a first aid kit handy whenever you hit the trails.
Riding an ATV should be taken seriously and even more precautions should be taken if a teen or child will be along for the adventure. Our team at Beaverhead Motorsports would love to speak with you more about general ATV safety! Visit us in Dillon, MT, where we proudly serve the Butte area.
