UTV Safety Tips

Riding a side by side is a thrilling activity, but it is one that comes with certain safety risks. You are riding a powerful vehicle at top speeds on uncertain terrain - it's going to have some element of risk to it. While you can't prevent all the risks, you can take proactive steps to limit and prevent some of them. Here at Johnson Fleet and Farm, we care about your safety. We rounded up our top strategies for staying safe while riding a UTV below. If you have any questions or need anything UTV-related, visit our dealership. We proudly serve those in Yulee, Fernandina Beach, and Hilliard, Florida as well as Homerville, Georgia.

Get the Gear

When you ride in a car, you sit in a contained environment shielded from outside obstacles and weather. A UTV is different. Part of the fun is riding in an exposed vehicle that allows you to better experience the riding trail. But this means you'll face the side effects of weather, kicked-up debris, low-hanging branches, and so on. You need the right gear to guard yourself.

First off, you need a helmet that fits well and has a favorable crash test rating. This will protect your head should you crash or be thrown off your side by side.

Second, you need some form of eye protection to block out the kicked-up debris, dust, dirt, and so on. Many helmets come with a face shield built in and if yours does, you are set to go. If yours does not, you'll want goggles or a face mask. 

Third, you'll want to wear full-length clothing. It'll add a layer of protection between your skin and the sun, as well as guard you against scrapes.

Inspect Your UTV

You will want to regularly look over your side by side and ensure it's ready to hit the trails. Start with checking your tires. Are they inflated to the right level of air pressure? Do they have enough tread? Your owner's manual will provide the levels you should be striving towards. Next look at your fluid levels and top off anything that's low. Engage in regular maintenance, such as oil changes. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with how your side by side performs, get it serviced. You don't want those issues to manifest into a safety issue on the Trail.

Stick to the Trail

The trail is established that way for a reason - it marks the path you can safely travel. While it's tempting to venture off and blaze your own trail, that can be dangerous. You never know what obstacles lie ahead. Before you know it, you could be stuck in a ditch or facing damage to your UTV (or yourself). Stay on the path and stay safe.

Ride Sober

Of course, you know not to hit the trail on your UTV under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs. But have you ever thought about your prescription drugs? Many medications can cause drowsiness, a slowed reaction time, and so on. Check with your doctor that you can take your medicines and safely ride your side by side.

For all your UTV needs, visit Johnson Fleet and Farm. We offer a range of new and used UTVs for sale. It's easy to find the perfect model for your budget, riding level, and riding lifestyle. We also offer repairs and parts replacements if your vehicle isn't running like it used to. Whatever you need, you'll find it with us. We proudly serve those in Yulee, Fernandina Beach, Hillard, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine, Florida as well as Homerville, Georgia.