If possible, always ride an ATV with a friend or at least with the ability to contact someone should you be involved in an accident. It is important to keep in mind, though, that because ATV rides often involve being in the backwoods or out of populous areas, your cell phone may not have a signal on your ride. This means that should you have trouble, even if it just involves running out of gas or popping a tire, you will have a harder time if you are alone. Many areas have local ATV clubs or groups to help provide companionship and additional support for riders in their locale.

It is important to keep in mind that younger drivers are not only more susceptible to accidents and injuries, but also more likely to improperly operate a vehicle. It is highly recommended that those under 16 never ATV alone but rather go out in groups with at least one supervising adult.

The CPSC provides ATV safety information on its website, including the following ATV safety tips:

• Never allow a child under the age of 16 years to drive or ride an adult ATV
• Do not use ATVs on paved roads
• Complete a hands-on training course for ATV operation and safety
• Passengers should not ride ATVs with a driver
• Always wear helmets and other protective gear when driving an ATV

Additionally, the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) offers training for ATV riders, such as a 2 hour e-learning course as well as hands-on, in-person training for all ages and families.  ASI suggests all ATV riders become familiar with the ways environmental and weather conditions can affect driving, how to properly negotiate different terrain, such as hills and valleys, how to clear or ride over obstacles, and how to make emergency stops or swerves, which if done incorrectly, can cause injury. They also encourage riders to:

• Purchase or wear proper DOT-compliant helmets that include eye protection when ATVing rather than helmets used for bikes or horseback riding.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when ATVing, as well as over the ankle boots and gloves.
• Only ride on designated trails and at speeds that are safe.
• Supervise all riders under the age of 16.

In Indiana, a law was passed in 2017 requiring all riders under 18 to wear DOT-compliant helmets when ATVing and all adults over the age of 18 who allow younger passengers to drive or ride without a helmet are in violation as well. This sets Indiana apart from the 19 states in the US that still do not require helmets, although Indiana does not require those over 18 to wear them.

When riding an ATV, you can come in contact with debris and foliage, as well as exposure to extreme sun and wind. Wearing the proper gear is an important step to staying safe and healthy while enjoying the freedoms and functionality that ATVs can provide.