Riding All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs is a popular hobby and a great way to get out into the great outdoors and enjoy both fresh air and the spirit of adventure. But riding one of these powerful vehicles is not as simple as hopping on and riding off into the sunset. You need to choose a bike that is appropriate for you, make sure that you have all the proper equipment and safety gear, and take the time to take an off-road safety course. Though you may think that these courses are unnecessary, they can go a long way toward preventing ATV injury and keeping you – and anybody else riding one of these motorized vehicles – safe. The attorneys at Malamut & Associates have seen far too many people who have suffered an ATV injury due to lack of knowledge or negligence. Here’s how an off-road safety course can help to prevent ATV injury. ATV and off-road safety courses are offered for riders of all stripes and all experience levels. For those who have never ridden, a basic rider course can offer the basics of safety rules and practical driving experience, usually offered on a closed course. These classes are designed to make sure that you know the rules, respect the power of the vehicle, and take all the basic precautions that are designed to keep you safe. Classes are offered for experienced riders too. Here are some of the things that will be offered in one of these training classes:
- How to maneuver and balance the vehicle
- The proper way to brake, for all types of terrain and situations
- Understanding all the controls that operate the vehicle, including the throttle, clutch, brakes and gears
- The right – and wrong – way to handle different types of terrain and surfaces, pass other vehicles, avoid obstacles and keep safe
- Defensive riding techniques to help avoid collisions, flipping and other dangers
- What you need to know about operating in wet or icy weather and in the dark
- The rules regarding carrying a passenger or cargo
- What the appropriate protective gear is, and why you need to make sure that your vehicle is well maintained
Though the hobby is enjoyable, it is important to remember that it can be dangerous. ATV injuries and fatalities happen far more than most people realize, with almost 14,000 ATV-related fatalities between 1982 and 2014 according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Almost 25 percent of those fatalities involved children under the age of 16, so it is important for parents to stress safety and insist upon their children getting the proper safety training before they are permitted to ride. Some ATV injuries are a result of safety problems or defects involving the vehicle or protective gear, and in other instances the fault lies with another rider. If you or someone you love has suffered an ATV injury and you need legal advice, contact the attorneys at Liebling and Malamut to set up a free consultation to discuss your case.