| As you know, riding an ATV is fun, no wait, it's a lot | | | | riders try to tackle hills by going sideways, which can |
| of fun. Of course you know that safety is one of | | | | damage the land, but also puts you in danger of |
| the biggest concerns for ATV riders, but another | | | | having your vehicle tip over. |
| concern that we should never forget about is the | | | | Many tips and suggestions are common sense, but |
| potential dangerous effects that riding can have on | | | | they can't be emphasized enough: |
| the environment. It's important to be respectful at all | | | | - Only ride in areas open to ATVs. |
| times while riding-respect the potential dangers of the | | | | - Drive over obstacles (slowly), to prevent widening |
| ride, respect other riders, and respect the lands and | | | | the trail, and perhaps causing damage to the land. |
| trails on which you ride. | | | | - Cross streams and creeks only at spots that are |
| It's important to stay on marked trails, and resist the | | | | marked |
| urge to pioneer a new trail. Many ATV trails are | | | | - Avoid muddy trails. If you cannot avoid muddy |
| strategically well maintained-only allowing riders on | | | | sections-don't go around them, drive through them |
| one area of a trail, and occasionally closing the trail, | | | | carefully so your wheels aren't spinning and tearing up |
| and opening a new area. This trail rotation is done to | | | | the earth. |
| allow the land/trail to heal itself naturally, and provide | | | | - Always comply with posted signs |
| good trails on a long term basis. | | | | - Always ride with at least one other person |
| You must learn proper ATV handling techniques to | | | | These are good starting points for beginners. |
| handle some of the terrain you will see. Many riders | | | | Remember that ATV safety recommendations are |
| that don't have a lot of experience can tear up the | | | | not just for people, but also in place for the |
| land when trying to navigate hills, or crossing streams | | | | environment. Enjoy your riding season-be safe, be |
| and creeks. Often these inappropriate techniques are | | | | smart, and have fun. |
| also safety hazards. For example some inexperienced | | | | |