Side-By-Side Safe Driving Guide
As the proud owner of a brand-new side-by-side, you’re no doubt itching to get out on the track or trail to do some off-road riding with your friends and family. However, UTV trail riding is not without its risks and it’s not the same as driving a car. There are some essential safety precautions you’ll want to take before you head out.
Not sure where to begin when it comes to side-by-side safety? Check out the following tips. If you have questions or want to shop side-by-sides for sale, contact American Marine & Motorsports. Our dealership is based in Shawano, Wisconsin, and we also serve those in Green Bay and Appleton.
Gear Up
While your UTV has a steering wheel, seatbelts and gas/brake pedals like a typical passenger car does, it’s also open to the air on most sides. This means there’s a risk of you hitting your head or even being thrown from the vehicle in a collision. That’s why you and every single one of your passengers should wear some pieces of safety gear to protect yourselves.
The most important piece of equipment is a well-fitting helmet designed for high-impact extreme sports riding. Most people opt for a motorcycle helmet with a full face mask or a motocross helmet and a pair of goggles. The face mask or goggles are necessary for eye protection from flying debris. Outside of this, you can wear long sleeves, pants in a sturdy fabric, ankle boots with the laces tucked in, and riding gloves for good grip.
Inspect Your Side-By-Side
Before every ride, it’s wise to look over your UTV to make sure it’s in good working order. Air up the tires to the manufacturer’s recommended psi levels, check your oil condition, fill up your gas tank and test out lights and signals. You’ll be less likely to suffer a breakdown in the middle of nowhere if you head out with a well-maintained vehicle.
Bring Tools
Some people bring their snacks and their stereo out to the riding area, but forget to bring a tool kit and some emergency essentials that will help them out of a jam. Don’t be one of them! Pack a side-by-side tool kit with wrenches, screwdrivers, nuts and bolts, a flashlight, a tire patch kit, an air compressor, and anything else you may need to tune up your vehicle on the trail. You should also have your phone with a charger, an emergency hand-crank or battery-powered radio, water, food, and rain gear.
Respect Others
When you’re on a trail or in an off-roading area, it’s important to follow the rules and be respectful of other riders and users of the area. Don’t go over the posted speed limits and give other vehicles a wide berth when passing them. Watch ahead for animals, hikers and other obstacles in your path. If you see someone pulled over who’s struggling, consider stopping and asking if they need help.
Be Responsible
You should always have your registration, license and insurance papers with you on the trail, as well as any tags, stickers or passes you may be required to purchase for entry. Always ride during daylight hours and with at least one other person who can help you. Never operate your side-by-side while under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs, as these substances will impair your focus and make you more likely to engage in risky behavior. If you’re on a prescription medication that may impede your ability to operate heavy machinery, talk to your doctor to make sure you’re safe to drive your UTV.
Remember: if your side-by-side needs some professional attention before you head out on a ride, contact our service department. We can schedule you an appointment with one of our esteemed mechanics. If you’re looking to buy, browse our website to check out our full stock of side-by-sides for sale. Whatever you need, you can find it at American Marine & Motorsports. Reach out today or stop by our dealership in Shawano, Wisconsin. We are also proud to serve those in Green Bay and Appleton, Wisconsin.
