Motorcycle and Atv Safety

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

What do I need to know about motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) safety?

Motorcycle and ATV safety means protecting yourself from injury by learning how to ride safely. Teach your child the safety rules and be a good role model by also following them. Make it a rule that your child cannot continue to ride if he or she does not follow safety guidelines.

What increases my risk for injury on a motorcycle or ATV?

ATVs and motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because your body is exposed. They are also more dangerous because they can travel at high speeds. This increases your risk for injury and broken bones if you are in a crash. The following may also increase your risk for injury:

You take turns too quickly or race. ATVs and motorcycles are top heavy and can tip easily. You may be thrown off or your vehicle may roll over. Your risk for injury and death increases if you race or jump your motorcycle or ATV.
You hit an object. You can lose control of your vehicle if you hit rocks, bumps, or potholes. You may hit a tree, flip backwards, or fall off.
You do not protect your head. You are at risk for head and facial injuries if do not wear a helmet.
You ride in areas that are not safe. You are at risk for injury if you ride in an open field where fences are hard to see. Fence wires may hurt your head, neck, face, or torso if you run into them at high speeds. You are also at risk if you drive an ATV on a road meant for cars.
You ride with an exposed engine. This increases your chances of burning your leg or other body parts.
You drink alcohol or use drugs and then drive a motorcycle or ATV. Alcohol and drugs decrease your ability to think clearly and react quickly.
You continue to ride while you are tired. Fatigue can slow down your reactions. This may decrease your ability to control your vehicle.
You are younger than 16 years. Children have the highest risk for injury or death on these vehicles. They may be injured both as drivers or passengers. Children do not have the ability to react quickly or the physical strength to control these vehicles.

What are some general safety guidelines?

Read the manual and warning labels before you drive. Make sure you understand the risks and safety rules before you ride.
Place an engine cover on your vehicle if the engine is exposed. This will help prevent burns.
Do not drive at night. You may not see other people, objects, or vehicles. Other people may not see you.
Never drink alcohol or use drugs and drive an ATV or motorcycle. These substances may decrease your judgement and reaction time.
Do not ride while you are tired. This may affect your ability to control your ATV or motorcycle. Take regular rest breaks. Do not drive while you are distracted.
Drive slowly and do not take sharp turns. Keep your hands on the handlebars and feet on the footrests. This will help you to stay in control of your ATV or motorcycle.
Do safety checks. Check the brakes, lights, tire pressure, and controls before you drive. Adjust mirrors if needed.

What are general safety guidelines for riding a motorcycle?

It is not legal for children younger than 16 years to drive a motorcycle. Any driver of a motorcycle may need a separate driver's license for motorcycles.
It is safer for only 1 person at a time to ride a motorcycle. If you do carry a passenger, make sure your motorcycle is designed to do so. Your passenger must wear the same protective gear you wear. Do not allow passengers to do tricks or to distract you as you drive.
Take a training course if you plan to drive a motorcycle. Practice driving your motorcycle before you drive in heavy traffic. Learn to drive your motorcycle with defense. Pretend other cars cannot see you, and try to stay in plain view. Follow the laws of the road.
Watch for changes in the road surface. Rocks, bumps, potholes, or slippery roads may put you in danger. Keep space between you and other cars so you have time to react in case they swerve in front of you.
Use indicators or signals. This will help other road users to prepare for your actions. Flash your brake lights before you slow down or stop. Use your blinkers when you turn or change lanes.
Do not ride in another driver's blind spot. This is the area behind a driver on either side where it is hard for the driver to see other vehicles. Honk your horn if another driver starts to move into your area.

What are general safety guidelines for riding an ATV?

Do not ride an ATV that has 3 wheels. ATVs with 4 wheels are more stable.
Only allow 1 person at a time to ride an ATV. The ATV will be less stable and difficult to control if you add a passenger.
Follow the minimum age and safety guidelines for children. Your child needs to be tall enough to reach all controls and stand comfortably. He or she needs to be able to drive responsibly. This means not speeding, not doing tricks or stunts, and not racing other drivers. Your child also needs to have good vision, coordination, and reflexes. An adult always needs to supervise a child who is driving an ATV.
Do not drive ATVs on roads that are meant for cars. This is not legal and can be dangerous. Find trails that are marked for ATVs.

What types of gear will protect me on a motorcycle or ATV?

Always wear a helmet when you are on ATVs and motorcycles. Use a helmet that is made to be worn on a motorcycle or ATV. Find a helmet with a face mask to protect your eyes and face while you ride. Wear sunglasses or other eye protection if your helmet does not have a face mask. Wear a light-colored helmet instead of a dark one so others can see you better.
Wear bright, protective clothing that covers your whole body. Clothes made of thick material such as leather or denim will help protect your skin. Wear long pants and sleeves, sturdy boots, and gloves. Avoid loose clothing that can get tangled in the ATV.
Use lights, reflectors, and flags, even during daylight. This will make you more visible.

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