UTV Safety Tips

Just got your first UTV? Nice! We can guarantee you won’t regret riding the trails or using your machine to help you around your property. However, in all the excitement, you don’t want to lose sight of the fact that it’s a motorized vehicle and riding it can come with some safety risks. That’s why Central Arkansas Mahindra has provided some tips for staying safe while riding in your utility vehicle. You can also swing by our dealership in Little Rock, Arkansas, to chat with one of our friendly staff about some of their tips. We also serve Sherwood, Conway, and Hot Springs.

Wear the Appropriate Gear

The foundation of staying safe in your UTV starts with what you wear. Even with roll-cage protection, you need to be wearing all the right clothes and accessories to protect yourself in the event of an accident. The most important piece of gear is your helmet. Wear one that’s safety certified by a legitimate testing organization. We recommend motocross helmets, as these can provide a balance of protection and breathability that other helmets can’t.

You’ll also want to be wearing long sleeves and long pants, even on hot days, as well as durable riding boots and maybe even gloves. If your helmet doesn’t come with a face shield, you’ll probably want to get some goggles for eye protection. Even if you don’t crash, these things can protect you from the elements and bugs.

Safety Gear to Carry

Next, we turn to the gear you should put in your UTV. Some of these supplies will be for the machine, like a repair kit or toolbox. Others will be for you, like a first-aid kit and emergency radio. Try to find a riding buddy, or at least let someone know where you’ll be and when you’ll be back. We hope you don’t need these supplies, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Service Your Vehicle Regularly

A well-oiled machine is a safe machine. Regularly servicing your vehicle is a necessary responsibility of the owner. Things like oil and air filters need to be changed out regularly. It can also help you catch problem areas before they blow up in your face. You can do this yourself or take it in to a professional, like the kind you’ll find at Central Arkansas Mahindra.

Ride Sober

This will be obvious for some, but every year dozens of people are injured while riding under the influence. As tempting as it may be on a sunny afternoon, perfect for a BBQ and a ride around the house, never ride your UTV if your judgement is impaired. This can include alcohol, recreational drugs, and certain prescription medications (speak with your pharmacist for help).

Stick to the Beaten Path

There’s a reason UTV trails are forged where they are. Each trail is manicured and cared for in such a way so as to make it perfect for riding. Straying away from it can be a big risk. It’s hard to know when you’ll encounter an obstacle that does serious damage to your machine, or you find yourself stuck and needing a friend to haul you out. The trails are designed to be fun! So stick to them.

With the right approach and safety strategy, you can ensure that not only is everyone protected, but that you can continue a fun day on the trails, or productive day at work, doesn’t get interrupted. If you’re still looking for the right UTV for you, then stop by Central Arkansas Mahindra in Little Rock, Arkansas. We have lots of great options available, for patrons from Sherwood, Conway, and Hot Springs.