Hopping on an off-road vehicle (ORV) to check the field or take a joyride could be part of your family’s everyday routine. In the agriculture industry, a tool like an ORV is common and helps make things like plowing snow, moving feed, and managing fencing much easier.
They can be enjoyed and provide a lot of value, but there are also precautions to take when driving and riding in an ORV to help keep everyone safe, especially young adults. Statistics show 1 in 5 ORV-related accidents involve a child under the age of 16.
The RideSafe Foundation is a non-profit organization rooted in education about off road vehicles. The organization hosts events, shares resources, and helps educate the next generation on the importance of safety. Through a wide variety of methods, RideSafe is empowered by their mission: “Gear, safety certification, and training are the answer.”
The Foundation shares these five red flags to help limit the chance of an accident:
1. 97% of all ORV accidents happen on adult-sized machines – use a vehicle appropriate for your age.
2. 95% of most cases the child had not completed a safety certification program – learn how to keep yourself and those riding with you safe.
3. 90% of cases involved a child not wearing a helmet - dress for safety.
4. 70% of cases happen in the right-of-way – use trails.
5. 63% of cases involve a rollover – drive at a safe speed.
“Awareness is the key to solving this problem, and that’s why we are working so hard to get the word out, to change the culture, and to make safe riding practices cool,” says RideSafe.
Since 2023 RideSafe has completed almost 30,000 hours of hands-on instruction with over 10,000 students! To learn more about RideSafe, their resources, or if you want them to visit a school near you check out their website, www.ridesafefoundation.org.
Whether you are riding to get the job done or feel the wind in your hair, safety is key. If you or your family ride an ORV often, visit Offroad-ed to earn helpful off-road safety certifications and to learn about your state’s requirements: https://www.offroad-ed.com.
Getting safety certified is just the start. It is important to implement safe riding habits, such as wearing a helmet, choosing the right riding terrain, and driving appropriate speeds. It can be easy to fall into the habit of just hopping on or letting the kids take it for a ride too. Before handing over the keys, it is essential everyone is aware of the safety risks when driving and riding in ORVs.
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