ATV Safety Institute Urges Enthusiasts to Enjoy the Freedom of Riding Safely and Responsibly
IRVINE, Calif., June 28, 2012 – The ATV Safety Institute and the major manufacturers and distributors of all-terrain vehicles encourage all ATV enthusiasts to practice safe riding habits over the Fourth of July holiday, as well as any time they ride an ATV.
Because this year’s Independence Day falls on a Wednesday, extended weekends will be an option for the approximately 35 million riders operating nearly 11 million ATVs in this country. All of these enthusiasts can learn to ride safely while increasing their enjoyment by taking the ASI’s half-day, hands-on ATV RiderCourseSM and interactive E-Course to better understand how to safely operate their ATVs.
“What better way to celebrate our freedom than to get out and ride ATVs in America’s wide open spaces,” said ASI President Tim Buche. “Participating in the ATV RiderCourse is a great, fun-filled family activity that will also make you a better, safer rider and help you to make the right choices.”
Taking the course is free if an enthusiast has purchased a new, qualifying ATV from an ASI member company. Most of the major ATV manufacturers offer incentives in the form of cash or merchandise certificates for completing the course.
To find an ATV RiderCourse and enroll, visit www.atvsafety.org or call 800-887-2887. In addition to learning safe riding skills on the range, riders can also enhance their knowledge of ATV safety principles online with the ATV E-Course, also available at www.atvsafety.org. Three age-specific online courses are available: one for adults, one for teens, and one specifically for children. All the courses include videos and interactive games to make them fun and effective learning experiences for every age group.
According to data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors. Therefore, the ASI strongly recommends that all ATV riders follow the warning labels on each vehicle. Finally, all ATV enthusiasts, no matter their age or experience level, should follow ASI’s Golden Rules of ATV Safety:
1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
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 an ATV RiderCourseSM; call toll-free at (800) 887-2887 or go to www.atvsafety.org to register. Or take the online e-course at www.atvsafety.org.
The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI® works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.