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! WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Sound Judgment
People do all kinds of things that you can’t predict or control.
Riding Companions
Leave a lot of space between you and other riders, especially in dusty
and dirty conditions, because it’ll be difficult to see the riders in front of
you stopping.
Do not carry a passenger on any ATV designed for single-rider use.
These ATV’s do not have appropriate equipment (hand-holds, footrests,
etc) to accommodate riders. Additionally, the added weight and weight
shift can make the vehicle difficult to control.
Other Vehicles
Depending on where you’re riding, you might encounter other ATV’s,
bikes, or motor vehicles on public lands. Respect the presence of cars if
you’re crossing roads or riding in public areas and make yourself be
seen. If you can’t see other vehicles coming, that means you’re invisible,
too.
The environment you operate an ATV in is often harsh and sometimes
dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions.
Weather
You need to consider the weather. It is dangerous to ride your ATV when
the weather is bad or potentially bad. Keep abreast with weather fore-
casts.
Terrain
Always pay close attention to the terrain you’re on even if it is familiar
to you. You can’t assume that the landscape you’re used to doesn’t
change. Changes to landscape can happen at nearly any time. Fences can
be constructed and excavations dug in a short period of time. Weather,
climate, and development take their toll.
The thing about terrain is that sometimes you don’t know it’s changed
until you get there. Whether it’s familiar or not, check out your sur-
roundings before and during your ride.
Night Riding
Riding at night can be very hazardous. Obstacles and other hazards (that
are easily identified during daytime) are much more difficult to see and
avoid. When night riding, make sure the lights are properly adjusted and
in good working order. Reduce speed; do not over-drive the headlights.
Never travel in an unfamiliar area or blaze a new trail at night. Always
carry a flashlight or flare for signaling an emergency.
Paved Surfaces
Try to avoid it. The ATV isn’t designed for pavement. Its handling
becomes more difficult on paved surfaces.
Hikers
With the renewed interest in hiking, camping, and other outdoor activi-
ties, people can show up in remote areas where you would never expect
them. For their sake, keep your eyes open.
Animals and Nature
Respect the outdoors that you love. Don’t use your ATV to chase ani-
mals or birds. Drive around young trees rather than over them. Keep
clear of streams and ditches with standing water.
Tread Lightly and leave it as you found it.
Those Around You
Environment
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