The latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive report that in the last five years, ATVs were involved in 14 deaths in agriculture, which makes it the largest cause of death amongst moving vehicles in the agricultural sector.

To ensure ATV users are riding safer and smarter, Can-Am say they are introducing their top tips for safer riding, underpinned by its Responsible Rider Charter to mark Farm Safety Week (17-21 July).

The manufacturer believes their user guidance will reinforce rider best practices while sparking discussions about responsible riding and will challenge users to rethink how they approach rider safety. 

Rachael Turner, BRP commercial manager UK and Ireland, said, “14 deaths involving ATVs is 14 too many. As a business, we are committed to educating users on the importance of responsible riding, whether that be through our top tips and charter or by directing users to undertake the training offered by ATVEA or EASI. We look forward to users benefiting from what we are doing when it comes to rider safety, so they can be safe when riding and can educate friends or colleagues to ensure they are safe as well.”

Can-Am off-road rider safety top tips: 

• Make sure that the loads carried on the racks are secure and evenly balanced and do not exceed the capacity of the ATV (check the manufacturer’s recommendations). 
• Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for any pedestrians, livestock, obstructions or other vehicles. 
• Regularly Inspect the ATV before use to ensure that it is in good working order.
• Avoid sudden increases in speed as this is one of the common causes of an overturned vehicle.
• Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a helmet, boots, long sleeve shirt and trousers when out riding.
• When riding across a slope, keep your weight forward. When going downhill, slide your weight backwards, select a low gear and use engine braking, which leads to the reduction in the need to use the brakes.
• When working a new area, make sure you walk the route before riding through it. This will give you a better perspective of the dangers or obstacles that you could come across. 
• You cannot predict the British weather, as one minute it could be bright sunshine and the next it could be pouring with rain, so be aware of changes in ground conditions as these could affect the loads you are carrying or the attachments you are pulling. 
• Always read the owner’s manual.