ATV Insuance and Safety

While there is no law requiring anyone to purchase any insurance on your off-road recreational vehicle, it is prudent to consider coverage to protect not only your investment in your off-road recreational vehicle, but to protect you from any costs you may be liable for from the use of your vehicle.

Your automobile policy may provide coverage for your cars, trucks or motorcycles that have been registered with the Registry of Motor Vehicles, however the standard policy does not cover off-road recreational vehicles such as unregistered trail bikes, all-terrain vehicles, dune buggies, go-carts, and snowmobiles. ATVs and off-road bikes are not specifically covered under either your automobile or home insurance and you may need coverage in a special policy or as an endorsement to your existing automobile or home insurance.

ATV Insurance Basics

ATV’s can cause injury and/or major damage, that’s why carrying liability insurance on your ATV is vital. Liability coverage protects you when the operator of your ATV is responsible for an ATV-related incident/accident. 

If your ATV is involved in a collision, is stolen or damaged due to weather, physical damage coverage on your ATV policy would compensated for these damages so you don't have to pay out of pocket to repair or replace your ATV.

ATV Safety Practices

Many common injuries can be prevented with the use of proper protective equipment. ATV manufacturers recommend wearing a DOT-approved helmet, protective eyewear, gloves, knee/shin guards and suitable riding boots for all riding conditions.

Proper tires (suited to a particular terrain) can also play a vital role in preventing injuries. Always maintain the recommended tire pressure. Be sure that all tires are inflated to proper pressure. Check that tires on the left side of your ATV are inflated to the same pressure as the corresponding tires on the right side.

Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footrests of your ATV during operation. Removing even one hand or foot can reduce your ability to control the ATV, or could cause you to lose your balance and fall off.

·      Climbing hills improperly could cause loss of control or cause the ATV to overturn. Some hills may be too steep for your abilities. Use your common sense. If the hill you are approaching looks too steep, it probably is. Never ride past the limit of your visibility; if you cannot see what is on or over the crest of a hill, slow down until you have a clear view.

·      Going downhill: Choose a downhill path as straight as possible, and with a minimum of obstacles. Shift your weight to the rear and use a low gear.

·      Don’t ride alone: Always make a plan before you ride. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Ride in a group of two or more. Each rider should be responsible for keeping track of one of the others. It’s called the “buddy system” and it’s good insurance on any ride.

(Safety practices courtesy of the ATV Safety Institute)