UTV Safety Tips

Utility terrain vehicles, or UTVs, are extremely powerful and versatile machines capable of handling almost everything. You’ll be able to tear up the backroads, haul massive loads, and hit top speeds with ease. 

Because of their compact size, UTVs fit effortlessly onto construction sites and are more maneuverable and agile. You can also have a lot of fun off-roading with your friends and family on the weekends. Since these vehicles serve many purposes, you should be aware of the best practices for riding your UTV safely.

We’ve put together the top tips to get you started. By following these, we are sure you’ll be able to ride your UTV with confidence while keeping everyone on board safe. If you are looking to buy, visit us at Motorcycle Maxx in Lewis Center, Ohio. We carry a variety of side-by-sides for sale.

Wear the Right Gear

One of the most important parts of riding a utility vehicle is wearing the proper gear. It starts with protecting your head with a well-fitting helmet that’s built for high-impact extreme sports. You can either wear a motorcycle helmet with a face mask or a motocross helmet with goggles. The latter option is better because it’s lighter in weight and more breathable, but you’ll still be protected in the event of an impact.

Gloves with good grip and boots that protect your ankles are important, as are long sleeves and pants made from sturdy material. You want to reduce how much skin you expose because of flying dirt, debris, rocks and branches that could injure you. You’ll also have instant sun protection when wearing breathable clothes that protect your limbs.

Trails and Pathways

Remaining aware of your surroundings while you’re riding your UTV is equally important. When following a designated trail or pathway, never try to forge your own way through the underbrush. Not only are you increasing your risk of an accident or rollover when you hit unexpected terrain or an unforeseen obstacle like a large rock or ditch, but you’re doing damage to the surrounding environment and the animals that live there. The path is meant to guide you over a reasonably easy route that still offers you plenty of fun riding, so stick to it and obey all laws, including speed limits and hours of use.

You need to stay focused and look ahead for any obstacles, other vehicles, or trail users that you’ll have to avoid. Know your limits and don’t attempt any paths that are beyond your experience level. Don’t go faster than you know you should. Ride during daylight hours and good weather conditions and always ride with other people who can help you out in an emergency.

Regular Maintenance

Keeping your UTV well maintained will decrease your chances of breaking down on the trail. Walk around your vehicle before you even leave home and examine it for signs of damage. Check your tire pressure and inflate all your tires to the manufacturer recommended psi while looking for embedded objects or excessive wear. Look under the UTV to see that fluids aren’t leaking from it and top up oil and coolant. Fill up the fuel tank before every trip. If you have any issues that need addressing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Motorcycle Maxx service department so our expert mechanics can help you out.

Situational Awareness

When riding with kids on a UTV, it’s important that they are aware of the rules of the road. Keep them buckled up in seat belts and make sure they all wear their helmets. You should never take very young children or infants on a UTV or try to put a car seat in a UTV. Some states may have laws about age restrictions or require that your children take a safety course before riding in a UTV. When you allow a teenager to operate a UTV, make sure they are supervised and following all the rules of the road.

Ride Sober

When riding an off-road vehicle, you encounter tight corners, bumpy trails, and unpredictable obstacles, which means that it’s extremely important to stay focused. Drinking alcohol or consuming drugs will slow your reflexes and make you more likely to take undue risks. The only safe way to ride a utility vehicle is by remaining sober. Some prescription drugs and health conditions can also impede your ability to drive a UTV, so check with your physician if you have concerns. Protect yourself, your passengers, and those around you by keeping your focus and staying in complete control.

Safety should be your number one priority, so take every precaution necessary to avoid any mishaps while you’re out on the road. If you need a side-by-side, stop by Motorcycle Maxx in Lewis Center, OH, to check out our selection of utility vehicles for sale. We proudly serve those in Columbus and Cincinnati, OH.