The Safe Use of ATVs in Agriculture

This article includes information to help you safely choose and operate ATVs.

Injuries from ATVs

ATVs/UTVs account for more than 700 fatalities and over 100,000 emergency department visits in the U.S. each year (Topping, 2021; Zhang, 2022). In a 2017 study, five states accounted for 25% of all reported ATV-related deaths, and Pennsylvania was on that list (OnSafety, 2017).

Selecting an ATV for Agricultural Work

• Features to look for: Look for an ATV with a coil spring shock absorber system, an automatic clutch, reverse gear, shaft drive, and a differential with a locking mechanism. PTO capability may be desirable for some agricultural tasks. Check with your dealer to determine which features are best for your operational needs.
• Size: ATVs are not toys and ‘one size does not fit all’. You should only operate an ATV that is right for your age and size. There are 5 different categories of ATVs, and each has age recommendations (Figure 1 shows three sizes of ATVs). Manufacturers suggest that children between 6 – 11 years old should not operate ATVs with an engine size over 70 cc.
• Three-Wheelers vs. Four-Wheelers: 3-wheelers have been found to be unsafe by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) based on injury and fatality data (figure 2). As a result, the sale of new 3-wheelers has been banned. There are still 3-wheelers in use, but you should never buy a used three-wheeler. If you own one, avoid using it. If you must, be religious about following all safety recommendations, especially those related to ATV stability. 

• Speed and Power: Adult, work-size ATVs come equipped with engines ranging from 90 to 700 cc or more, with gear ratios that allow speeds in excess of 70 mph. The use(s) planned for the ATV should determine the size of the engine and the gear ratios. There are few, if any, reasons for a maximum speed of more than 25 mph in any agricultural operation. Serious ATV injury incidents increase at higher speeds. Differences between an ATV with a 2 x 4 and a 4 x 4 drive system include turning and driving ability on different terrains.

Who can operate and ride on an ATV

• Age matters: Children under the age of 16 years often lack the emotional maturity and physical size to operate or control most machines. They should not operate adult-sized ATVs or those with an engine greater than 90 cc. The National Children's Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety's Agricultural Youth Work Guidelines (AYWG) guidelines for adults to determine the readiness of youth to operate an ATV. Visit the 'Operating an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)' page. The ATV Institute also offers an ATV Readiness Checklist to help you determine if your youth is ready to operate an ATV.  
• No passenger: Never carry a passenger; the unique handling characteristics of an ATV require that the operator shift both weight and position on the seat to steer and control the vehicle. Extra riders hamper the operator's ability to steer and control the ATV. 
• Sober drivers: Avoid using ATVs while alcohol or drugs are in the bloodstream. In nearly 10 percent of all injuries, and in 30 percent of all fatal ATV incidents, alcohol use was a contributing factor.

Safe operation of ATVs

• Turning and breaking: Due to the design of an ATV, it is very different to operate an ATV compared to most other machines on the farm. Turning involves the operator shifting their weight for different types of turns. The operator should shift their body weight forward and towards the outside of the turn while making the turn. When turning at a higher speed, the operator should lean their upper body towards the inside of the turn while maintaining their weight on the outer footrest. To stop or slow down, gently and evenly apply the brakes. 
• ATV Overturns: Steep or uneven terrain can cause an ATV to overturn quickly. High speed, uneven ground, ditches, or large rocks increase the chance of the ATV being rolled or flipped during operation. When climbing an incline, the operator should shift their body weight forward while keeping both of their feet on the footrests. If the ATV stalls or begins to drift backwards, slowly apply the brakes, stop the machine, dismount, and slowly guide the ATV down off the slope while using the hand brakes to assist. When descending a sloped terrain, the operator should shift into a lower gear and drive downhill with their feet on the footrest, sitting toward the back of the operator's seat. When possible, an ATV should not be driven across steep slopes. Selecting an ATV with coil springs and shock absorber suspension systems will help reduce bouncing and pitching from side to side.
• Loading and Braking: When using an ATV to haul firewood, feed, or equipment, it's important to consider the vehicle’s pulling and braking limits. Heavy loads, especially on slopes, can cause the ATV to jackknife, slide out of control, or even roll over. Attachments like tow-behind mowers may exceed the ATV’s braking capacity, increasing these risks. To maintain stability and reduce the chance of a rear overturn, never carry more than one-third of the ATV's weight on the rear rack. Ideally, loads should be evenly distributed between the front and rear racks to ensure safer operation and better control (Figure 3).

When towing with an ATV, make sure the load does not exceed the combined weight of the ATV and the operator. Always attach the load to the hitch point recommended by the manufacturer and follow their instructions for towing carts, mowers, or other equipment. Some ATVs have separate front and rear brakes, while others use a linked system that activates all brakes together. Linked brakes help prevent mistakes that could affect control. Regardless of the system your ATV uses, practice braking at various speeds and while towing to stay safe. The operator’s manual is a helpful guide for understanding how your ATV’s brakes work.  

• Unseen Obstacles: Oftentimes, the ATV used for slower-moving agricultural work may also be used to herd livestock at higher speeds over uneven terrain. Herding animals with an ATV can be very hazardous. High-speed travel across a field may cause the front end of the ATV to drop into a ditch or hole or hit a rock. Quick or tight turns can cause the machine to roll. Rolling over or flipping the machine can result in severe injury that could be fatal. 
• Pesticide Applications: Pesticide applicators may have increased exposure when using an ATV outfitted with a pesticide applicator due to the close proximity between the applicator, spray nozzle, and the treated material. Follow pesticide labels for recommendations on personal protective equipment when spraying pesticides.

Personal Protective Equipment

ATV operators should wear personal protective equipment (figure 4) to stay safe, though some agricultural tasks may require adjustments.

• Helmets are required by Pennsylvania law and significantly reduce head injuries. A full-face helmet that meets ANSI Z90.1 standards should be worn, especially at speeds over 10 mph. If the helmet lacks a face shield, use ANSI-approved goggles or glasses.
• Eye protection is important even at low speeds. In wooded areas or nurseries, goggles or a face shield can prevent serious injuries. At higher speeds, eye protection is essential, and tinted lenses are beneficial in sunlight, while clear lenses should be used at night.
• Wear sturdy, over-the-ankle boots or tightly laced work shoes with slip-resistant soles. Motorcycle or ATV boots are ideal, but quality work shoes are usually sufficient.
• Choose gloves and clothing based on the task. Long sleeves, full-length pants, and padded gloves offer protection. Avoid loose clothing that could catch on branches or equipment.

ATV Maintenance

Regularly inspect the ATV to ensure it runs safely and avoid breakdowns or injuries. An ATV has the following key areas that need to be maintained for the machine to work efficiently: 

• Tires: Maintain the recommended air pressure in all tires because uneven pressure can cause the ATV to pull to one side. Nuts and bolts should be tightly secured.
• Throttle: Check the throttle to make sure it moves smoothly.
• Brakes: Check the brakes every time before you ride.
• Lights: Check the lights to make sure they are working and wipe away any dirt to maintain optimal visibility.
• Oil and Fuel: Examine the ATV for leaks and maintain recommended fluid levels.
• Drive Train and Chassis: Check for wear, leaks, and loose parts. Replace, tighten, and lubricate parts as needed.

ATVs and State Law

Each state has its own laws related to ATVs. For Pennsylvania, the complete ATV law and a brochure summarizing important points can be viewed at the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website. Here are a few key points related to agricultural uses. 

• What counts as an ATV: An ATV is defined in the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code as follows:
  • Class 1 ATV - "A motorized off-highway vehicle which travels on three or more inflatable tires and has a maximum width of 50 inches and a maximum dry weight of 800 pounds"
  • Class 2 ATV - "A motorized off-highway vehicle which travels on three or more inflatable tires and has a width which exceeds 50 inches or a dry weight which exceeds 800 pounds." 
• Registration and Titling: All ATVs in Pennsylvania, except ATVs used solely for business or agricultural purposes (see more on this and MAVs below), must be registered and titled with DCNR. ATVs that are used for both work and recreation must be registered and titled. ATVs used exclusively for agricultural purposes are exempt from the sales tax, registration, and title requirements of general use all-terrain vehicles. 
• Operation of ATVs and Public Roads: General-use ATVs are authorized only to cross public roadways perpendicular to the roadway after coming to a complete stop and yielding the right-of-way to oncoming highway traffic. ATVs used exclusively for agricultural purposes are excluded from this regulation (See 'When ATVs are MAVs' Section). Children between 8 and 15 years old are authorized to cross highways with general-purpose ATVs provided that they are under the direct supervision of an adult and have a valid safety certificate. These certificates are proof of training in an approved training program (see below for information about training programs). 
• When ATVs are MAVs: ATVs that are used exclusively for agricultural purposes are classified in the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code as a Multipurpose Agricultural Vehicle (MAV) and are exempt from the Pennsylvania ATV law. A MAV is defined as "a vehicle which is 60 inches or less in width and 1200 pounds or less in dry weight and which is used exclusively for agricultural operations and only incidentally operated or moved upon the highways." ATVs that fit the definition of a MAV may be operated by the owner of the ATV on roads between parts of the farm and upon roads between farms not located more than five (5) miles apart (Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, Chapter 13). An ATV that is used for dual purposes, that is, for both work and recreation, is not considered a MAV and thus would fall under the general ATV law at all times. If you have questions about the MAV designation for your ATV, contact the DCNR at 1-866-545-2476.

Training

Contact your ATV dealership, DCNR, or the ATV Safety Institute to find an ATV safety training in your area. These classes will provide riders with important safety information and an overview of ATV legislation. Training is also required to obtain a valid safety certificate so that children aged 8 to 15 can cross highways with general-purpose ATVs under the direct supervision of an adult.

Resources

A web search of the Consumer Product Safety Commission will yield information and further data about ATV injuries and fatalities.

Topping J. 2021 Report of deaths and injuries involving off-highway vehicles with more than two wheels. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. November 2021.

Zhang C. 2022 Report of deaths and injuries involving off-highway vehicles with more than two wheels. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. May  2023.

OnSafety (2017). Five States Account for 25 Percent of All Reported ATV-Related Deaths in the United States

Prepared by Dennis J. Murphy, Emeritus Professor and William C. Harshman, Senior Project Associate

Revised by Dr. Florence Becot, Nationwide Insurance Early Career Professor Agricultural Safety and Health Program Lead, and Linda M. Fetzer, Extension Program Specialist.