ATV, UTV, and off-road vehicle insurance
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Tips for safer ATV rides
Updated June 8, 2026 . AmFam Team
The great outdoors is calling! And an ATV can be your off-road ticket to exciting trails, fresh air, and a little extra adrenaline rush.
The key to enjoying that freedom is making safety part of the adventure. Whether you’re new to riding or you’ve logged lots of trail time, these ATV safety tips can help you ride with confidence.
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Take an ATV safety course
If you’re looking for a solid starting point—or a refresher—consider a hands-on class. Among the many great training and safety classes available to you, the ATV Safety Institute offers ATV rider courses that combine learning the basics with practical training led by a licensed instructor.
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Gear up for every ride with personal protection equipment (PPE)
- A DOT-compliant helmet
- Goggles or other eye protection
- Long sleeves and long pants
- Over-the-ankle boots
- Gloves
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Stay off paved roads
ATVs are designed for off-road use, not pavement. Riding on paved roads can reduce traction and handling, and it may be illegal where you live.
Before your ride, check your local and state rules for what’s allowed on public roads, shoulders, and crossings. They’re often available online through your state Department of Transportation and local DMV.
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Follow Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidance
The U.S. CPSC is a helpful resource for do’s and don’ts, especially for families. A key recommendation is to keep kids under 16 years of age off adult ATVs. Younger riders may lack developmental skills needed to maneuver adult-model ATVs (Opens in a new tab), putting them at a much higher risk of having an accident.
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Match the ATV to the rider’s age and size
ATVs come in different classes, including youth models designed for specific age ranges. Many youth ATVs are speed-limited and simpler to operate. If a rider can’t comfortably reach the controls, it’s a sign the ATV isn’t the right size. Always supervise riders younger than 16 and keep them on designated trails at safe speeds.
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Do a quick pre-ride inspection
A simple routine before you head out on an ATV ride can help prevent breakdowns and reduce risk. Create an inspection checklist and have it ready to quickly verify that your rig’s ready to roll, including tires, brakes, controls, and fluids.
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Be smart about passengers
Only carry passengers if your ATV is designed for it. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV and carry no more than one passenger on an ATV built for two. Extra riders without proper seats or footholds can affect balance and make the ATV harder to control.
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Don’t drink and ride
Alcohol and off-road vehicles don’t mix. Many states treat impaired ATV operation the same as operating other motor vehicles under the influence, and you could face serious legal and safety consequences.
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Consider ATV insurance before hitting the trail
The right gear helps protect you if the unexpected happens. To feel more confident on the trail, consider wearing:
Even if your state doesn’t require ATV coverage, it’s a smart choice to help protect your vehicle and gear. Not sure what makes sense for your riding style? Your American Family Insurance agent can help you explore options and build an ATV policy that’s custom-designed for your needs and budget.
This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. We do not make any guarantees or promise any results based on this information. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites that may be linked in this article.
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