5 Tips for ATV Safety on the Farm

An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) can be an important tool for work on the farm, assisting in a variety of tasks. It can help you herd or check on your livestock, and it’s a great way to haul small loads.  

But as useful as ATVs can be, they can also be dangerous, and anyone who operates one should be prepared. Here are some ATV safety tips to remember on the farm. 

And don’t forget to reach out to Farm Bureau for policies that protect your farm vehicles from liability, collision and other risks. 

Tip #1: Wear the Right Gear 

It sounds simple, but it’s still true: One of the best ways to protect yourself from injuries is to wear suitable gear on the ATV. This includes an ATV-appropriate helmet (not a bike helmet), goggles, thick clothing with long sleeves that isn’t baggy enough to get caught in the ATV or on environmental objects, long pants, gloves and sturdy footwear with the laces secured. This precaution can help keep you from experiencing minor injuries, such as scratches and burns, as well as significant injuries or death. 

The right gear isn’t just for people, either. Your farm ATV should also be equipped with appropriate safety gear, such as a visibility flag and lights. This is especially important when ATVs may be used in areas where other vehicles are also being operated. 

Tip #2: Prepare for Every Ride  

All potential riders should enroll in ATV safety training to know how to appropriately use the vehicle. Some rules may seem like they’re just common sense and should be second nature to everyone, but don’t assume people new to your farm know them. 

Ensuring that everyone feels comfortable operating the vehicle is critical. Insisting on following safety rules may seem annoying in the moment, but they can save lives. 

Make sure you run through this checklist before you operate the ATV: 

• Check oil and gas levels.
• Gauge the tire pressure.
• Verify that the lights are working.
• Ensure that footpegs, wheels and rack are properly tightened. 
• Check that the throttle moves smoothly.
• Confirm that all lines and cables are intact.

Tip #3: Be Diligent and Careful

Most ATV accidents on farms occur when the vehicle collides with objects or rolls over and may have been prevented with diligent and careful observation. You should always limit your speed based on the terrain and visibility conditions. Hidden objects can easily cause an accident, so it’s important to be aware of hazards in the area, such as downed fences, culverts or stumps. 

Crossing roads also requires you to be diligent, coming to a complete stop on the shoulder and crossing in places where there’s good visibility from both directions. 

Tip #4: Distribute Weight Carefully 

Although the seat on your ATV looks like it can fit multiple people, it’s made for only one rider. The long seat is to allow the rider to shift their weight properly when turning. 

Because weight distribution is critical to safely operating ATVs, you should also be cautious when using your vehicle to haul anything. Before loading anything onto an ATV, check the manufacturer’s weight limit. The sum of your ATV, rider and load should not exceed that limit. 

Before operating, you should ensure that the load is balanced and secure so the machine doesn’t pull or roll once you get going.  

Tip #5: Check-In Regularly 

When anyone is working alone, establish check-in procedures. Be aware of where others are working, what they are doing, when they should be back, alternate plans in case of bad weather and a contact method. 

Once the procedures are in place, take these check-ins seriously. If someone is injured and unable to communicate that they need assistance, finding them after a missed check-in could be lifesaving. 

Protect Your Business 

ATV safety is an important part of protecting you and everyone on your ag operation. Another important piece is ensuring that you have the right coverage for your business. Talk with a Farm Bureau agent about coverage options for your situation.