Back

Safety Tips for UTV Riding with Children

Jul. 3 2023 Safety By Maxx Outdoor & Equipment

Share

If you have both a UTV and a child (or several of each!) then you might be wondering whether you can safely combine the two. The answer is “yes,” but with some important qualifiers! Powersports vehicles can be dangerous, and we want to minimize risk to the greatest extent possible when there are children involved.

Accessories for Safe Riding

UTV handholds are the most important safety features for riding with children. These most often take the form of grab bars that can be attached to the roll cage. If your UTV does have a spot where you can easily install a grab bar, you can use wrist restraints that secure the wrists to the seatbelt. Both of these options qualify as handholds under the law.

In addition to adding a handhold, you should consider new seatbelts for your UTV. Most UTV models feature a simple three-point harness, with one strap across the lap and one strap across the chest. We recommend upgrading to a four-point or five-point harness for added safety when riding with children.

Child Safety Gear

It probably goes without saying that your children should have all the requisite gear for UTV riding. That includes a properly sized helmet with eye protection, riding boots, and gloves. Another piece of gear you might consider for children is a neck collar. Their heads have a tendency to bobble around on bumpy trails, and a sturdy neck collar will reduce neck strain – and protect against neck injuries in the event of a crash.

Riding Rules for Children

Make sure your kids understand all the safety rules before their first UTV adventure. This list can provide you with a starting point, but feel free to add to it as you see fit:

  • Never board the UTV without an adult.
  • Only adults can touch the controls.
  • Always wear your harness and safety gear.
  • Keep your hands inside the UTV at all times.

Last but not least, you will need to carefully assess whether your children are ready for the responsibility that comes with riding in a powersports vehicle. Off-roading can be a great experience for kids if they can handle it! Use your best judgment, and have fun.

Having trouble finding some of the important safety gear or accessories we’ve listed above? Then be sure to stop by our location here in Weatherford, Texas to browse our collection of UTV parts and customizations for sale! At Maxx Outdoor & Equipment, we’re always happy to help you find exactly what you need for your UTV or farming equipment, and proudly serve the nearby cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas.