ATV Safety Training
For new ATV Riders

 
ATV Safety Training For New Off Road Riders
By Jesse Taylor

Some states require ATV riders to complete off road safety training before they ride. Others do not require any ATV training. Whether or not your state requires it, off road training is a wise move for any ATV rider just starting out in the sport. ATVs handle differently from other vehicles you may be familiar with, such as motorcycles or cars.

If you know how to properly handle your ATV, you will be less likely to get into dangerous situations that can result in injury or death. As your off road riding skills improve, so will your confidence. You will be ready for new challenges that put your off road skills to the test.

Most ATV training courses cover basic riding techniques such as using signals and controls, starting, shifting, braking, and turning. They also cover basic and advanced off road handling for emergency stops and swerving, hill riding, and riding over obstacles and various terrains.

You will learn basic safety rules for ATV use, including pre-ride inspection, protective gear, and courtesy rules for sharing the trail with other ATVers and trail users. Most off road training includes hands-on practice for new riders to apply basic safety and riding techniques on their own ATVs.

Your ATV training may also include information on how to make as little impact as possible on the environment. Respect for the land is a major factor in protecting the right to ride. Sticking to the trail and riding only on land designated for ATV use helps to preserve wilderness areas for off roaders and everyone else to enjoy for years to come.

Enrolling in an ATV safety course in your local area means that your training will include instruction about local laws for ATV use. You'll also get to meet other local ATV riders, learn about the trails in your area and the best spots to ride, and find out about local ATV clubs.

Both adults and younger riders can benefit from off road training. ATV youth safety is a growing concern across the country. The best way to reduce the number of ATV injuries and fatalities in youth and adults is education. Safety awareness in young ATV riders increases their skill and confidence. Learning to ride an ATV allows young riders to develop responsibility and good judgment while having fun and spending time outdoors.

Contact your local ATV club, state highway department or DNR office, or the ATV Safety Institute for information on ATV safety training in your area. If you purchased a brand new ATV recently, your safety training may be included for free. Check with your dealer for more information.

© 2009 Gorilla Winches. You Want In? We'll Get You Out. Get a limited lifetime warranty and free shipping on all Gorilla ATV and recovery winches and accessories at http://www.gorillawinches.com

Article provided by Gorilla Winches. Visit them on the web at http://www.gorillawinches.com.
Learn more about ATV safety and winching techniques at the Gorilla Blog. Reprint Rights: Feel free to reprint this article, provided that the article is published in its entirety as written and includes the copyright section, author bio, and active URL links.