UTV Safety Tips
The one thing that most new UTV owners will have in common is an eagerness to take their new baby out and hit the trails. But before you rev that engine and get to the exploration, there are certain safety measures you should consider. At Cycles of Jacksonville, we don’t just match our customers with their favorite UTVs – we also educate them on best practices to ensure their safety and the safety of others. Come visit us in Jacksonville, FL for some valuable knowledge and safety tips on handling your UTV!
Purchasing Protective Gear
In an ideal world, a rider would need only their UTV and the open road to guarantee them a good time. However, safety is a key way to keep getting the best experiences when riding your UTV. An important collection of accessories to purchase with your UTV is the proper riding gear.
A reliable helmet is probably the first thing you should get before even considering a UTV ride. Reliable doesn’t simply mean a helmet that fits comfortably, but one that’s been tested and approved by the Department of Transportation.
Be sure to also look around for the right pair of goggles, long pants, long-sleeved shirts and riding boots that cover your ankles. This basic gear will greatly reduce your risk of significant injury while enjoying your UTV.
Avoid Paved Roads
As the name suggests, utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) were meant for off-road fun so it’s important that you stay off paved and public roads. The easiest way to do this is to pay attention to trail regulations and only visit marked trails if you’re taking your UTV out. Don’t forget to practice other precautions like slowing down at a turn or curve and keeping to the right of the trail.
These measures will prevent you from entering dangerous areas where you become vulnerable to being hit by other vehicles or losing control of your UTV due to a shift in terrain type.
Keep Your Limbs Inside
After a certain number of hours on the trails it’s quite possible for a rider to become confident or laxed. This could translate to dangerous practices like sticking your arms, legs and other appendages out of the vehicle while riding. You’ll always want to keep your limbs close to you while riding your UTV and maintain your grip on the hand holds during your ride. This will protect you from injuring yourself while traveling past trees, signs and other potential hazards on the trail.
UTVs are a great source of adventure and fun when you use the proper safety strategies to go along with them. Visit Cycles of Jacksonville for more information on how to protect yourself while out on the trails! We’re also happy to welcome all customers from Orlando and St. Augustine as well!