ATV-Safety-Week-3-23-15IRVINE, Calif., May 19, 2015 – The ATV Safety Institute encourages riders nationwide to get trained through the ATV RiderCourse, regardless of their experience.

“The ATV Safety Institute’s hands-on RiderCourse is a great way for new riders to learn how to be safe on an ATV, or for experienced riders to refresh their skills,” said ASI Vice President Cam Arnold. “Riders will learn about the Golden Rules of riding, the controls on the ATV, how to turn, how to ride up and down hills, and how to properly shift body weight when riding. ASI encourages everyone, no matter what their age or experience, to Get Trained, Go Ride.”​
This summer, from June 6 through 14, the ATV Safety Institute will be launching ATV Safety Week throughout the country. ASI is working with partners all across the country who have volunteered to provide free ATV RiderCourse training and other ATV safety education opportunities. To sign up for a class, please call 800-887-2887.
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The ATV RiderCourse is free year-round for anyone who has purchased a new ATV. If the brand is an ASI member company, the ATV owner may be eligible to receive a cash or gift card incentive for completing the course. If someone purchases a used ATV, the course can be completed for $55 (ages 6-15) or $150 (ages 16+). Some states offer free training for children, even if the age-appropriate ATV is purchased used.

More than 2,200 ASI instructors nationwide help to ensure that training is available to anyone.

“Be an ambassador of the sport,” Arnold said. “Follow ASI’s Golden Rules, continually practice safe riding, and encourage others to do the same.”

The free, interactive E-Course at atvsafety.org serves as a great introduction to safe and responsible ATV operation for new riders or as a refresher for experienced enthusiasts. There are three age-specific online courses available.

All ATV riders should follow the warning labels on each vehicle and abide by the ASI’s eight Golden Rules of ATV Safety to minimize their risk of injury:
1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross, when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourse and the free online E-Course. Call toll-free at (800) 887-2887 or go to atvsafety.org to register.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI® works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in an ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.