Unsafe ATV/UTV driving can harm people, property and futures. Learn why Nationwide is championing ATV/UTV rider safety

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. According to the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), there were 201 OHV fatalities as of June 2023.

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

ATV and UTV 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. Do not ride your ATV under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  4. Do not carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV. Do not carry more than one passenger on a two-seater ATV.
  5. Ride an ATV appropriate for your age.
  6. Supervise riders younger than 16. ATVs are not toys.
  7. Only ride your ATV on designated trails and at a safe speed.
  8. Take online and in-person ATV training.

UTV safety rules2

  1. Always fasten your seat belt and wear a helmet and other protective gear (such as gloves, goggles, and long clothes). Keep all parts of your body inside the UTV.
  2. Do not ride on paved surfaces. UTVs are supposed to be operated off-highway.
  3. Drive only in designated areas and at a safe speed. Be cautious when turning and when crossing slopes.
  4. Do not drive or ride a UTV under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  5. Only drive a UTV if you're 16 or older and have a valid driver's license. UTVs are not toys.
  6. Do not carry more passengers than the UTV is designed for. Never allow a passenger who is too small to sit in a passenger seat to ride in the UTV.
  7. Always read and follow the UTV operator's manual and warning labels.
  8. Take online and in-person 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.