Protect Your Family From ATV Injuries and Liability
All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are frequently used on the farm or ranch to haul supplies or get to the field, but ATVs often serve another purpose: recreation. It's important all family members know and follow necessary precautions every time ATVs are used – for work or for play. It's also important to know that liability for off-premises recreational use of an ATV is not covered by most farm policies.
Must-know ATV safety rules
Parents should determine each family member's readiness to operate an ATV based on physical size, coordination, balance, ability to judge distances, willingness to follow rules and peripheral vision.
All family members should follow the ATV Safety Institute's Golden Rules:
Always wear a helmet and other protective gear
Never ride on public roads
Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs
Never carry a passenger on a single-rider vehicle
Supervise riders younger than 16
Ride only on designated trails, and at a safe speed
Take a hands-on safety training course
The ATV Safety Institute also recommends riders use an ATV that’s right for their age:
6 and older – under 70cc
12 and older – 70cc to 90cc
16 and older – over 90cc
ATV off-premises protection
If you or your family ride your ATV(s) off your property, make sure your agent is aware of how you use these vehicles. The AgriChoice® policy from Nationwide Agribusiness can be endorsed to provide liability coverage for off-premises recreational use of an ATV. Without that endorsement, most policies limit coverage to on-premises use.
