Keeping a Child Safe in a UTV

Riding a UTV is fun for all ages and offers a lot of adventure opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. If you have children in tow, there are a few safety precautions to take to ensure your little one will stay safe. At Arizona Honda in Snowflake, Arizona, we want our clients and their families throughout Show Low and Holbrook to put safety first when riding. Read on to learn more about how to keep a child safe in a UTV.

Ensure They Meet the Minimum Age Requirement

You can check the sticker on the side of the UTV to determine the minimum age requirement provided by the manufacturer. Most manufacturers create UTVs to be used by children at least 12-years-old. You should also look into your state laws unless you plan to use the UTV on private land.

Use UTV HandHolds

You can mount UTV handholds inside of the UTV for extra stability to ensure your child has something to stabilize their body. The handholds are cheap and inexpensive to purchase, making it easy to have a few available. They can be attached to roll cages and can also be used as wrist restraints. 

Add Booster Seats

Young children can ride in booster seats if you plan to ride slowly on private land. Most kids who are small enough to fit in a booster seat can't legally ride in a UTV in most states. If you plan to drive at a low speed on a safe trail, look for a booster seat that has a four or five-point harness. This will ensure they can stay strapped in safely.

Installing a seat belt and a harness is also necessary for older children that don't fit in booster seats.

Purchase Safety Gear

Safety gear should be worn by your child at all times to reduce the risk of injuries if an accident occurs. Neck collars are necessary because their head can bob around a lot on different trails. They'll also need a helmet that is appropriate for their size and stays put. Gloves, boots, and goggles are also necessary to ensure they can avoid abrasions or eye injuries. If you require them to wear safety gear at a young age, it will not only offer extra protection but also encourage safety as they get older. They will get into the habit of always having it on even when they start to ride alone.

Do you want to learn more about how to keep your child safe in a UTV? You can reach out to our team at Arizona Honda in Snowflake. We're here for ATVers throughout Show Low and Holbrook.