Sharing passions and hobbies like Power Sports and ATVs with kids is an excellent way for parents to bond with kids. However, as these things become increasingly popular, ATV related fatalities and accidents have also become quite frequent. Parents can steer clear from such issues by using the right equipment, safety gear and getting the proper training to make sure their kids can enjoy their ATV riding adventure without worrying about their safety.
Why ATV Riding is a Fantastic Option for Kids
Riding an ATV can be an excellent outdoor activity, especially for families. It gives kids the chance to explore the vast outdoors while ensuring they get some exercise and fresh air. So, if you are a parent who wants their kids to unplug and truly appreciate the nature and all its beauty, ATV riding might just be the thing you are looking for.
An added benefit of learning to ride an ATV is that it teaches kids how to drive responsibly, making sure they are well prepared to drive a regular car.
Why ATVs can be Dangerous for the Youth
Despite the wide range of benefits ATV riding offers kids, this activity can still be quite dangerous if you aren’t cautious. All-terrain vehicles can reach lightening fast speeds and are incredibly heavy, weighing over 600 lbs. So, when kids ride these vehicles without the maturity, strength, good judgment and knowledge to operate them safely, there is a massive risk of injury involved.
Mentioned below are the most common reasons behind ATV crashes, especially among kids:
- Losing control of the vehicle
- Carrying passenger/s
- Judgment errors
- Driving errors
There is also a massive chance of getting injured if the driver doesn’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions when riding an ATV. To steer clear of the various dangers involved with driving an all-terrain vehicle, it would be best for kids and their parents to participate in an ATV safety course.
ATV Requirements for Kids
Every area has certain ATV riding requirements for children. In some places, the minimum age for riding this vehicle is 14 while it is higher in others. It would also help to check whether there are any rules about kids riding with adult supervision to steer clear from trouble.
There are less powerful, lighter and smaller ATVs available for kids and handling them is significantly easier compared to regular ones. In addition, ATV models have different weight and age recommendations, which is why you must choose the right option for your kids, based on their size, weight and age.
When choosing an ATV model for your kid, make sure that they can touch the ground and grip the vehicle’s handlebars without having to stretch.
ATV Rules and Safety Tips that Kids Must Follow
Following are some handy ATV rules and safety tips that parents and kids can greatly benefit from:
- Wear proper safety gear, which includes over the ankle boots, pants, long sleeves, gloves, goggles and DOT compliant helmet. Wearing these shields riders from gruesome injuries in case they fall off their ATV
- Make sure your kids take part in an ATV safety training course
- Use flags, lights, reflectors and gear to make sure you can see everything clearly
- Avoid riding 3 wheel ATVs
- Make sure your feet and hands are not outside the vehicle
- Don’t forget to wear your harness or seatbelt
- Avoid riding on paved roads. The only exception is when you are crossing, if the law permits it.
- Parents should prevent kids from riding adult sized ATVs and choose one that suits their size and age
- Only ride the all-terrain vehicle on flat, smooth terrains. Avoid bodies of water, hills and dense trees and make sure you only ride in areas where you can properly see into the distance
- Make sure that you and your kids ride ATVs at safe speeds and only on the trails that are designated for ATV riding
- Steer clear from riding an ATV during night time. Also, when riding during the day, make sure the vehicle has enough fuel to avoid getting stranded
- Kids should avoid riding with passengers
- Parents must have an emergency kit and emergency plan are for treating minor injuries
- Do NOT ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Supervising adults must be experienced and well-trained at riding all-terrain vehicles
- Parents who ride all-terrain vehicles with their kids must keep their vehicles slow
- Riders below the age of sixteen must always be under supervision of an experienced adult
Besides taking a safety training course, kids and parents can practice a few things to make sure their ATV riding experience is safe and risk free.
Mounting
Kids must be familiar with mounting the vehicle while the parking brake is set. When sitting in the ATV, their body should always be positioned properly, with their eyes looking forward, heads up and hands properly set on the handlebars.
Braking
Start to push the ATV very slowly while your child operates its brakes. Doing so will help them understand the right pressure required to stop and slow down. Continue to practice until you are confident that your kid knows how to hit the brakes properly.
Turning
Turn the ATVs engine off and teach your child the right techniques to turn the vehicle. You must also teach them to look in the turn’s direction and watching out for potholes and other obstacles. Make sure that you practice turning for both directions, ensuring the movement becomes smooth and automatic.
The Best Place to Stay After Your ATV Riding Experience
As entertaining as ATV riding sessions are, they can be quite tiring and you need a good place to relax once they are over. Why not book a stay at Rosedale Mountain Retreat? We would be glad to host your ATV adventure and even help you plan safe and scenic routes for your family.
You can maximize your time outside by exploring the various lodging options and amenities at the Rosedale Mountain Retreat with convenient on-site ATV trail access. So, please feel free to contact us and learn to reserve comfy and relaxing lodging for your next getaway
