ATV Safety Information

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has concluded that ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES (ATVs) may present a risk of DEATH or SEVERE INJURY in certain circumstances.

Over 781 people, including many children, have died in accidents associated with ATVs since 1995.

Many people have become severly paralyzed or suffered severe internal injuries as a result of accidents associated with ATVs.

Every month thousands of people are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries received while riding an ATV.

You should be aware that AN ATV IS NOT A TOY AND CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. An ATV handles differently from other vehicles, including motorcycles and cars. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during routine maneuvers such as turning and driving on hills and over obstacles, if you fail to take proper precautions.

TO AVOID DEATH OR SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY:

• ALWAYS read the owner's manual carefully and follow the operating procedures described. Pay special attention to the warnings contained in the manual and all labels on the machine.

• NEVER operate an ATV without proper instruction. Take a training course. Beginners should complete the training course described herein.

• NEVER carry a passenger on an ATV. Carrying a passenger may upset the balance of the ATV and may cause it to go out of control.

• NEVER operate an ATV on pavement. The vehicle is not designed to be used on paved surfaces and may be difficult to control.

• NEVER operate an ATV without an approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket.

• NEVER operate an ATV on a public road, even a dirt or gravel one, because you may not be able to avoid colliding with other vehicles. Also, operating an ATV on a public road may be against the law.

• NEVER consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating an ATV.

• NEVER operate an ATV at excessive speeds. Go at a speed which is proper for the terrain, visibility conditions and your experience.

• NEVER attempt to do wheelies, jumps or other stunts.

• ALWAYS be careful when operating an ATV, especially when approaching hills, turns, and obstacles and when operating on unfamiliar or rough terrain.

• NEVER lend your ATV to anyone who has not taken a safety training course or has not driven an ATV for at least a year or is under 18 years old.

• For more information about ATV safety call the Consumer Product Safety Commission at
  1-800-638-2772 or the ATV Distributors' Safety Hotline at 1-800-852-5344.