The importance of responsible riding

BRP is committed to educating users on the importance of responsible riding and there are several ways farmers can keep safe on an ATV. As a business we have a threefold approach to ensure riders are safe when using vehicles. The first is through our partnership with EASI, which enables us to offer subsidised training to all Can-Am customers. The second is through our global Responsible Rider programme, which has been developed to provide users with simple rules that ensure they are conscious of their surroundings and are safe when using an ATV.

To supplement these written golden rules, BRP has introduced an ATV rider safety video, which is available on the Can-Am off-road YouTube channel, that demonstrates key safety and vehicle tips users must know before riding an ATV. The third is participating in industry-wide initiatives and working with industry bodies such as the All-Terrain Vehicle Industry European Association (ATVEA), of which we are a member. Being a member of ATVEA has enabled us to provide our customers with free interactive eTraining that allows them to learn the fundamentals of ATV riding at their own pace.  

We believe this combination of efforts puts safety front and centre for users no matter the industry. But we are always looking at innovative ways in which we can communicate this important message through our industry partnerships, safety dealer network, social media channels, and at events we attend such as LAMMA.  

Rachael Turner, BRP commercial manager UK and Ireland, provides some top tips for responsible riding when using an ATV: 

• Make sure that the loads carried on the racks are secure and evenly balanced and do not exceed the capacity of the ATV (check the manufacturer's recommendations).   
• Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for any pedestrians, livestock, obstructions or other vehicles.   
• Regularly Inspect the ATV before use to ensure that it is in good working order. 
• Avoid sudden increases in speed as this is one of the common causes of an overturned vehicle.  
• Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a helmet, boots, long sleeve shirt and trousers when out riding.  
• When riding across a slope, keep your weight forward. When going downhill, slide your weight backwards, select a low gear and use engine braking, which leads to the reduction in the need to use the brakes.  
• When working a new area, make sure you walk the route before riding through it. This will give you a better perspective of the dangers or obstacles that you could come across.   
• You cannot predict the British weather, as one minute it could be bright sunshine and the next it could be pouring with rain, so be aware of changes in ground conditions as these could affect the loads you are carrying or the attachments you are pulling.   
• Always read the owner's manual.