One of the many cool things about ATV riding is that the sport is insistent upon mutual rider respect and consideration.  In many ways, it’s like surfing: there are no referees or officials out in the water regulating traffic, calling fouls or sending people to a proverbial penalty box.

ATV riding is self-regulated, which is exciting, but can also be problematic for riders who fail to follow the unwritten rules of off-roading - particularly in the winter.  Failure to abide by these rules can lead to widespread chaos and, of course, injury.

Much like surfing, a cardinal rule of ATV riding is to never ride alone, for the obvious reasons.  But this is even more important in the winter, where a stranded solo rider could have a difficult time finding help.  It is also important to watch out for snowmobiles on winter trails, as they are faster and can come suddenly barreling around blind corners. 

As always, stay on trails, respect signs, and beware of fallen trees or other obstacles lurking beneath the snow.  Which brings us to the biggest risk: ice.  Make sure you have the proper ATV tires to handle the slick conditions, as frozen ponds and lakes can be extremely hazardous at high speeds. And if the weather has been unseasonably warm, avoid the ice altogether. Too many people break through the ice each year on their ATV’s, and the risk of death is far too great.

Filed under: ATV Education