ATV Safety Tips: What to know before you squeeze the throttle

(ARA) As summer breezes blow in, ATV (all terrain vehicle) enthusiasts are stirring up wind gusts all their own as they tour through area trails. With ATV manufacturers coming up with dozens of ways to make the ride more enjoyable from all-wheel drive to electronic fuel injection and improved ergonomics -there's a lot of fun to be had this summer. But, even with all these features, a great ride can take a wrong turn if safety isn't the rider's top priority.

Whether riding on a muddy trail or up a rocky slope, ATV riders are expected to obey all applicable laws, just like car drivers on city streets. And, just like car drivers it's imperative that recreational vehicle riders be educated and know everything about their machines. So, before heading out to enjoy a fun day of riding, here are some tips for getting the most out of any ATV ride.

+ Choose the Right Vehicle -Adult model ATVs are for riders age 16 and older only. Younger riders should never ride an adult-sized vehicle until they are at least age 16. Read and understand your owner's manual and the on-product labels on your vehicle before you ride.

+ Complete a Safety Course First-time riders should always take an ATV safety course before heading out on the trails. Experienced riders should take a refresher course if it's been awhile since they last rode.

+ Gear Up -Riders should always wear a helmet and other protective gear, including gloves, long pants, footwear that covers the ankles, a long-sleeve shirt or jacket and eye protection.

+ Respect the Environment Where You Ride -Always obey all applicable laws and ride only in approved or designated areas and trails. Make sure to get permission before riding on private property and never ride on paved surfaces.

+ Know Your Limits -Do not ride at excessive speeds or past the limit of your visibility. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability.

+ Respect Vehicle Capacity Guidelines -Riders should never carry a passenger on an ATV unless the ATV has been specifically designed to carry an operator and a passenger. On ATVs designed for two riders, the passenger also must wear a helmet and protective gear.

+ Don't Drive Impaired -Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

+ Tell a Friend -Always make a plan before you ride and tell someone where you're going. Ride in a group of two or three and create a buddy system.

+ Watch Your Speed -Avoid excessive speed and do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability.

Knowing that safe and responsible riding makes all the difference on the trails, ATV manufacturers such as Polaris Industries have teamed up with the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA) to offer complimentary safety training to ATV buyers.

To further advance awareness for safe and responsible riding, Polaris has launched a nationwide "T.R.A.I.L.S." program that awards grants to organizations seeking to promote ATV rider safety or preserve land access through trail development and maintenance.

"We take safe riding seriously, which is why Polaris recently launched a grant program in support of organizations across the country seeking to promote safe ATV riding and trail preservation," said Bennett Morgan, president and chief operating officer of Polaris. "We're putting the money you invest in us back into protecting the sport we love."

Check with a local dealer for details about SVIA courses or for more information about the Polaris T.R.A.I.L.S. grant program including an application form, visit http://www.pi54.com/ATV/PDFs/TRAILSGrantAppForm.pdf.

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