Unsafe ATV/UTV driving can harm people, property and futures.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 700 deaths and an estimated 100,000 emergency department-treated injuries involving off-highway vehicles (OHVs) occur each year.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Nationwide are stepping up as champions for ATV and UTV safety.
Dale Earnhardt Jr

Off-road safety rules you should know and follow

ATV safety rules1

  1. Always wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmet along with goggles, long sleeves, long pants, gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
  2. Avoid riding on paved roads when possible (ATVs are designed for off-road use only).
  3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
  5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
  6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
  7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
  8. Take online and hands-on ATV training.

UTV safety rules2

  1. Always fasten your seat belt, wear a helmet and other protective gear, and keep all parts of your body inside the UTV.
  2. Avoid paved surfaces. UTVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
  3. Drive only in designated areas, at a safe speed, and use care when turning and when crossing slopes.
  4. Never drive or ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  5. Never drive a UTV unless you're 16 or older and have a valid driver's license. UTVs are not toys.
  6. Never carry more passengers than the UTV is designed for, and never allow a passenger who is too small to sit in a passenger seat to ride in the UTV. 
  7. Read and follow the operator's manual and warning labels.
  8. Take online and hands-on UTV training.
Also know the ATV/UTV safety rules in your state.

Your best option is to find a local ATV/UTV or off-road safety course near you.

Safety articles

Safety training

ATV safety

Free safety e-courses, RiderCourse and Golden Rules of Riding from the All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (ASI)

UTV safety

Free safety e-course, DriverCourse training and safety guides from the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA)
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Contact your local Nationwide Farm Certified agent to learn about farm ATV/UTV insurance.
[1] Adapted from The ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules.
[2] Adapted from the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) standards.