GEICO Warns ATV Users to Stay off Paved Roads
OutdoorHub 03.14.14
With warmer weather around the corner, GEICO urges drivers use caution on paved roads when riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).
ATVs are designed for off-road use only, but many people risk their lives and their passengers’ lives by driving their ATV on public paved roads.
According to a recent study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), more than 1,700 ATV riders died in crashes on public roads in the U.S. from 2007 to 2011. Almost two-thirds of all fatal ATV crashes occurred on paved roads. Deaths have increased dramatically over the decades as ATVs become more popular.
With low-pressure tires and the ability to reach high speeds, ATVs are not safe to use on paved roads. Few riders wear helmets and many drive impaired, only increasing the danger. The IIHS study revealed that only 13 percent of drivers and 6 percent of passengers killed while operating an ATV were wearing helmets.
GEICO offers the following tips to ATV drivers and riders to help stay safe:
- Always wear a helmet whether a driver or passenger
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Drive only in proper locations
- Reduce speeds
- Be mindful of the possibility of rollovers
- Take extra caution when driving with a passenger (if allowed on your ATV model)
“Whether you’re driving a car, riding a motorcycle or enjoying an ATV, it’s important to have the right protection,” says Thomas Garner, GEICO motorcycle/ATV director. “You never know who or what might cause an accident. Your insurance company can provide you with a lot of valuable advice.”
GEICO reminds drivers that Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) are also more dangerous on paved roads than off-road terrains.
