Have you ever experienced the thrill of an off-road ride on an ATV? There is something exciting about hopping on the back of an ATV and winding your way through rugged terrain, not knowing quite what lies ahead. In fact, the ATV Safety Institute reports that the majority of ATV riders – approximately 78 percent – choose to ride recreationally.
Off-road riding can be highly unpredictable, and unfortunately, not all surprises are good. Whether you have a small one-seat four-wheeler or a brand new, high-powered UTV that carries multiple passengers, there is risk involved every time you start the engine. Continue reading to learn more about the dangers of riding an all-terrain vehicle and why ATV insurance can help protect you from the unexpected.
Why ATV Liability Matters
Some states require riders to carry liability insurance when operating an ATV outside their own property. Even if you live in a state that does not require liability insurance for ATVs, it can be a costly mistake to forego this type of coverage. An off-road ride can go wrong in the blink of an eye, causing significant damage to another person’s property or landing a passenger or other rider in the hospital. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were nearly 100,000 ATV-related emergency room visits in 2013 alone.
If you are found at-fault for another person’s injury or property loss, you could be sued for damages. ATV liability insurance helps pay for court costs, medical bills, lost wages and other expenses associated with an ATV accident. It can also help you pay to replace any property you damaged during an accident, such as a fence or another person’s ATV.
Protecting Yourself and Your ATV
Chances are you have a lot of money invested in your ATV. Many of today’s high-powered ATVs and UTVs carry price tags that exceed $20,000. Add in custom accessories, and you have a pricey asset that may be worth as much as your personal vehicle. Collision insurance helps ensure your ATV is replaced or repaired if you are involved in an accident.
Do I Need ATV Insurance in the Off-Season?
Perhaps you only ride your ATV when the weather is mild or during hunting season. Since you store it away part-time, it may seem logical to cancel your insurance policy to save on premiums. Consider, however, that your risk exposure does not go away simply because you are not riding the ATV. According to Outdoor Life and data from the Texas Department of Public Safety, thousands of all-terrain vehicles are stolen in the U.S. each year, yet only one in three are recovered. If someone were to break into your garage and steal your ATV, how would you pay to replace it? By maintaining your comprehensive ATV insurance year-round, you stay covered against fire, theft, and vandalism; not to mention, it is often more affordable to maintain your insurance coverage than it is to stop and start a new policy.
Finding the ATV Insurance that’s Right for You
ATV insurance is not just for people who ride their off-road vehicles for work – recreational riders need it too. For more information about the type of ATV coverage you may need, contact our office to speak with an agent. We can help evaluate your risks and find a policy that is custom-fit to meet your needs. Call us today to request your free quote. We look forward to serving you soon.
