ATV Safety Tips
All-terrain vehicles, variously called ATVs, quads and four wheelers, are forces to be reckoned with when it comes to sheer power and durability. While most are meant for recreational use, some are capable of doing hard tasks on the farm or job site. Whatever you do with your quad, it’s important that you’re being safe about it. If you’re not sure how to ride your four wheeler safely, read this list of ATV safety tips by Loewer Powersports of Alexandria, Louisiana.
Acquire & Use The Right Safety Gear
Having the right gear for ATV riding is a great first step towards safety. The most essential item is a well-fitting helmet with a high crash test rating such as a motorcycle or motocross helmet. If you choose the former, you’ll likely have the benefit of a full face mask to protect your eyes from flying debris and rocks, but motorcycle helmets can be heavy and too warm to wear on the lower speeds of an ATV. If you go with the lighter motocross helmet, you’ll also need to invest in a pair of goggles for eye protection. Wear long sleeves and pants to keep your skin from abrasions and scrapes, gloves to protect your hands and sturdy boots on your feet, which will be close to the ground and to the rugged tires of your ATV.
Carry a repair kit with tire patches, flashlight, screwdrivers, wrenches and an air compressor to quickly inflate tires on the trail. Also have a first aid kit on hand with bandages and ointments as well as over-the-counter medications for minor illnesses. You’ll want to bring both an emergency radio and your cell phone with its charger so you have a few ways to call for help if you have a problem. Ride with at least one other person so that you can look out for each other, too.
Service Your ATV Regularly
Inspecting your ATV for damage before every trip can spare you an embarrassing and costly breakdown in the middle of nowhere. You’ll want to check your tire pressure and look for bald spots or embedded objects in your tires. Never ride on bad or worn out tires -- always get these replaced before your next off-roading adventure. Check and top-off fluids regularly, get oil changes as necessary and make sure your fuel tank is always full before you head out. If you come across an issue you can’t address yourself at home, then bring your ATV to the Loewer Powersports mechanics so we can help!
Follow Safety Guidelines
While operating heavy machinery like an ATV, you should maintain your focus and alertness as much as you can. This means not using drugs or alcohol before or during your ride. Intoxicating substances will impede your focus, slow your reaction time and make you more likely to take risks that endanger you and others around you. If you have a health condition or use prescription medications that could impair your ability to safely operate your quad, talk to your doctor to determine whether you should attempt powersports riding.
Know yourself and your limits; don’t try to perform stunts outside of your skill level and don’t take on a difficult track you know you’ll struggle to drive. Slow down on new trails so you can anticipate what’s coming. Watch out for other trail users, including other riders, hikers, campers and animals that may cross your path. Ride during daylight hours and good weather conditions so that your visibility remains clear and you aren’t forced into a ditch by rain or wind. Don’t overload your four wheeler with too much cargo or more passengers than it’s meant to hold.
When your ATV needs parts or service from a professional mechanic, contact us to schedule an appointment. Loewer Powersports serves the cities of Rapides Parish, Lafayette, Shreveport and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with our Alexandria dealership location. We also carry a vast inventory of new and used ATVs by all the top brands in case you’re in the market for a new ride.
