Staying Safe While Riding Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs)

Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) are types of vehicles that we commonly see in Iowa that can be used for both recreational and work-related uses. These types of vehicles include All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), or four-wheelers, and Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs), or side-by-sides.

Even though we often see these types of vehicles driving through Iowa cornfields or down the side of the road, these types of vehicles are associated with high rates of injuries and deaths. In fact, the state of Iowa trauma registry estimates that there are more than 200 ATV crashes alone in Iowa every year. Additionally, 1 in 4 ATV deaths involve children under 16. These numbers do not include UTVs and other ORVs. Injuries includes serious head trauma, along with other types of injury, that may result in life-long disabilities and even death.

Using ORVs can present itself as a bit of dilemma. These types of vehicles can serve as a valuable tool for agriculture use, and they are a favorite pastime of many Iowans. To add to this, there is a lot of confusion about what is legal in Iowa related to ORV use, as laws vary from county to county. But much of the data shows us that we are not riding these types of vehicles correctly or legally.

If you do decide to use Off-Road Vehicles for either work or recreational use, be sure to take the time to educate yourself on how to ride safely. Even though certain activities surrounding ORV use may be legal, it may not be safe. It is our responsibility to make safety our own priority to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Afterall, prevention is only cure for traumatic brain injury.

Safety Tips for Off-Road Vehicles

• Always wear a helmet!
• On UTVs, the number of passengers should not exceed manufacturer’s recommended capacity
• All users should wear the provided seat belts at all times on UTVs
• Only one person at a time on ATVs
• On UTVs, a passenger should be able to place both feet flat on the floorboards with their back resting against the back of the seat
• Ride the correct size of ATV. Youth should NOT ride on adult-sized ORVs
• Never ride on the road. These vehicles are designed for off-road use only, and the design of the vehicle and its tires make it dangerous for use on any type of road surface, including gravel roads
• Never use alcohol or drugs while operating these vehicles
• Always wear your protective gear
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return

Resources

• Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (I-CASH) Off-Road Vehicle Safety
• University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Safety
• Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Off-Highway Vehicle Reference Guide