Why are ATVs risky?
ATVs have a high center of gravity and respond to rider movement. They can roll on slopes, flip when turning too fast and tip when carrying uneven loads. Many injuries involve head trauma, crush injuries or ejection from the vehicle.
Because they feel like small, easy vehicles, people often skip training and gear. Treat an ATV with the same respect as larger equipment.
Think of the machine as heavier and less stable than it feels. Practice low-speed turns, braking and gear changes on flat ground so your reactions become automatic.
- Rollovers on slopes and uneven ground
- Speed and sharp turns
- Overloaded racks and trailers
- Riding without a helmet
What gear should every rider wear?
Wear a properly fitting helmet that meets a recognized safety standard, eye protection, gloves, sturdy over-the-ankle boots and long sleeves and pants. Add a visibility vest if you ride near roads or in low light.
A helmet is the single most important piece. Replace it after a crash or if it is damaged, and check the manual for what to wear on your model.
Look for a helmet that fits snugly and sits level on your head. Ask a dealer for help, and replace it after any serious impact, because hidden damage can reduce protection.
Who should ride, and who should not?
Most ATVs are designed for one rider. Adding a passenger shifts balance and increases the risk of a crash. Machines are built for adults, and children can be hurt on one that is too big or powerful for them. Check the manufacturer's age guidance.
Never allow riding after drinking alcohol or using medicines that cause drowsiness.
Mixing alcohol or drowsy medicines with riding multiplies the danger. Rest before you ride, and do not ride at night unless the machine has working lights and you know the trails.
How should you ride on terrain and with loads?
Slow down on unfamiliar ground and avoid steep slopes. Shift your weight uphill and avoid turning across a slope. Keep loads low, centered and secured, and never exceed the manufacturer's limits.
Carry tools and supplies in ways that will not shift. Avoid towing anything your machine is not made to tow.
Know where fences, wire, ditches and washouts are. Walk new routes first. Wet grass, mud and loose gravel can change how an ATV handles.
- Ride at a speed you can control
- Stay off steep slopes if inexperienced
- Secure and balance cargo
- Never overload racks or trailers
What about riding on or near roads?
Rules about riding ATVs on public roads, crossing roads and where you may ride vary widely by state and county. Check with your state department of natural resources, your sheriff's office or a local highway agency before riding on roads.
Even where it is allowed, cars may not expect an ATV. Use lights, flags and slow, careful behavior when crossing.
If you cross a road, stop, look both ways and cross at a right angle. Ask your local sheriff or state agency whether riding on any road is allowed for you.
How do you get trained?
Hands-on rider training courses are offered in many places. Ask your state, local extension office or a recognized safety organization about classes. Practicing in a safe, open area under supervision builds skills before you head onto rough ground.
Read the owner's manual for your specific vehicle, including warnings and labels.
Ask your local extension office or state safety group whether free or low-cost courses exist, and check for programs for young riders and families.
What if there is a crash?
Call 911 for any serious injury. Do not remove a rider's helmet unless it is needed to open the airway, and do not move someone with a possible neck or back injury unless there is danger. Keep them warm and still.
Tell others where you are going and when you will be back, especially if you ride alone. Carry a phone or other way to call for help.
Make a plan for a crash before it happens. Know the address of where you ride, carry a first aid kit and keep a phone in a pocket rather than a rack.
- Tell someone your route
- Carry a phone and first aid kit
- Call 911 for head or neck injuries
- Keep the person warm and still
Key takeaways
- Wear a helmet, eye protection, gloves and boots every time.
- Do not carry passengers on single rider machines.
- Keep speed down and avoid steep slopes and sharp turns.
- Check state and county rules for riding on roads.
- Take a hands-on course and tell someone your route.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.