Occupant Safety Resources

Off-Road Vehicles

Off-road vehicles, including ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) and UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles), can offer thrilling experiences for families, but they also pose significant risks, especially for children. Understanding these risks and implementing safety measures is crucial for keeping young passengers safe during off-road adventures.

Understanding the Risks

Off-road vehicles have gained popularity. These vehicles are often used in rural areas for both recreation and work, but they come with inherent dangers:

  • Limited Protection: Off-road vehicles provide little to no protection in the event of a crash. Unlike passenger vehicles, they lack structural safeguards such as seat belts and airbags.
  • High Speed and Stability Issues: Both ATVs and UTVs can reach speeds over 65 mph, making them difficult to control on uneven terrain. Their design also makes them prone to tipping, particularly on paved surfaces, where they do not grip well.
  • Inadequate Safety Standards: ATVs fall outside the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) jurisdiction and are overseen by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Gathering comprehensive statistics on injuries and fatalities is challenging, but data indicate that a significant portion of ATV-related injuries—about 26%—involve children under age 16.

Key Safety Recommendations

  1. Always Wear Helmets: Every rider, especially children, should wear a properly fitted helmet and protective gear such as gloves and eye protection.
  2. Understand Vehicle Design: ATVs are typically one-person vehicles, while UTVs can accommodate multiple passengers with car-like seats and seat belts. However, many manufacturers advise against carrying passengers in UTVs, especially younger children who may not be able to secure themselves properly.
  3. Follow Age Guidelines: Children under age 16 should not operate adult ATVs or UTVs. Ensure that young riders are of the appropriate age and size for the vehicle.
  4. Supervision and Training: Always supervise children while riding. Consider enrolling drivers in safety training courses to teach safe operation and handling.
  5. Limit Passenger Capacity: For ATVs, only one person should ride, while UTVs should not exceed their designed seating capacity.
  6. Avoid Paved Roads: Do not operate off-road vehicles on paved surfaces, as they can tip easily and lack necessary road safety features.
  7. Regular Vehicle Inspections: Before each ride, check the vehicle’s brakes, tires, and safety features to ensure proper functionality.
  8. Safe Riding Practices: Passengers in UTVs should always fasten seat belts, keep body parts inside the vehicle, and never ride in the cargo area.

Important Considerations for Child Restraints

  • Child Restraints Not Recommended: Off-road vehicles, including ATVs and UTVs, are not designed or crash-tested for the use of child restraints or car seats. Installing a car seat in these vehicles is not advisable, as the safety features and crashworthiness of these vehicles differ significantly from standard passenger vehicles.
  • Manufacturer Guidelines: Most car seat manufacturers specify that their seats are only certified for use in passenger vehicles that meet NHTSA standards. Since off-road vehicles do not fit this classification, using child restraints in ATVs and UTVs can lead to false security without adequate safety protection in the event of a crash.
  • What CPSTs Should Know: Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) should educate families about the risks associated with using child restraints in off-road vehicles. It’s important to communicate that the safety of young passengers relies on following manufacturer recommendations and local laws rather than attempting to adapt standard car seat practices to these non-traditional vehicles.

Training Opportunities from MN DNR

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) offers safety training courses for youth riders to promote responsible ATV operation. These courses cover essential safety practices, equipment usage, and riding techniques, including:

  • Youth ATV Safety Training: Designed for riders aged 10 to 15, this program covers the fundamentals of safe riding, including vehicle operation, safety gear, and risk management.
  • Hands-On Learning: Courses often include practical riding exercises under supervision to ensure participants gain real-world experience in a controlled environment.
  • Certification: Upon successful completion, participants may receive a safety certification, which is often required for operating ATVs in certain areas.


For more information about upcoming training sessions and registration, visit the MN DNR website.

Additional Resources

By following these safety guidelines and staying informed about the risks, families can enjoy off-road adventures while ensuring the safety of all passengers, especially children.

Disclaimer:
The information and materials found on this website are intended for reference and education. To ensure all passengers are using vehicle restraint systems correctly, please consult with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, as well as your vehicle’s owner’s manual and your child restraint owner’s manual.