The ‘flip side’ of ATV’s

April 1, 2015 · 0 Comments

All terrain vehicles have long been a valuable tool on Canadian farms. However, the power, size and popularity have increased the potential for serious injuries. With last week being National Farm Safety Week, it is a great time to make sure you and your family are riding their ATV’s safely.
If you use and ATV for work or recreation following a few safety precautions will reduce your risk of injury:
Never Take Passengers – Most ATV’s are not designed for doubling. Do not attach passenger seats to your ATV.
Suit Up – Wear a helmet, eye protection, long pants, long sleeves, gloves and non-skid shoes for every ride.
Watch your Weight – Check your owner’s manual for load limits. Resist the temptation to overload, use proper tie-downs to secure your load properly and remember any load will affect the performance and stability of the vehicle, so adjust your driving accordingly.
Ride the Right Size – Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Adult-sized ATV’s are not appropriate for children under 16.
Ride in Daylight – Even on the most familiar terrain, low light and reduced visibility will increase the chance for a mishap.
Do not alter your ATV – Adding after-market passenger seats or other implements will affect the stability and weight distribution of the ATV, increasing the likelihood or an accident.
Do Not Drink – Driver’s must obey Ontario’s drinking and driving laws under the Highway Traffic Act as well as those under the Criminal Code of Canada. Driver’s caught with a blood alcohol concentration level greater then .08, or who fail or refuse to provide a breath or blood sample to police, will be charged.
With ATV’s being able to reach speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour and weighing in excess of 700 pounds. Their unpredictable nature in off-road conditions make them very easy to rollover and almost impossible to push off you if it lands on top of you.
In the 2004/05 reporting year, 4,104 people were admitted to Canadian hospitals for injuries related to an ATV crash. In the 2005/06 year 5,584 emergency departments visits for ATV injuries were reported in Ontario alone. In the five years between 2007 and 2011, 912 riders lost their lives in Canada do to mishaps involving ATV’s and other off-road vehicles (an average of 182 per year).
No matter whether your using your ATV for work or pleasure, taking a safety course could save your life. The Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs (OFATV) offers certified safety courses that will teach you everything you need to know about handling and operating an ATV. For more information on safety courses go to www.ofatv.org or call the OFATV at 705 797-0797.

By Michelle Austen