Safety Is Always Important | Should I Wear a Helmet While Driving a UTV?
Off-road vehicles, such as UTVs and Side-by-Sides, are becoming more and more increasingly popular as outdoor recreational vehicles. Vehicles like the Polaris RZR, Can-Am X3, Honda Talon, Kawasaki KRX1000, and Yamaha YXZ1000, Polaris Ranger, Can-Am Defender are some of the most popular models being used depending on geographic location and different owner’s needs. They offer an exciting way to explore nature, go hunting, enjoy roads less traveled off-road, and they can also be used to work on farms and other rural properties.
But when you’re behind the wheel of a UTV or side-by-side, we recommend safety to be on your mind and that it always be a top priority while operating a UTV. One of the best ways to ensure your safety is to wear a Helmet. A helmet is a must-have for any off-road experience. Do they add an extra step to your day, sure, but it provides essential protection against head injuries in the event of a crash or rollover. Without a helmet, you are leaving yourself vulnerable to serious and potentially life-threatening head injuries considering all the metal tubes, open-air windows, and many other potentials they could protect your from. Even if you feel like you’re driving carefully and responsibly, you never know when another driver, an unexpected obstacle, or a sudden shift in terrain could lead to an accident. Another thing to consider is that some states require the use of a Helmet while operating a UTV, be sure to check with your local and state regulations regarding this so you are following the rules while off road.
Helmets are also beneficial in more subtle ways that you may have not considered in the past. They can help to reduce the noise of the engine, allowing you to focus on the terrain and the environment around you. And they provide some insulation, which can help to keep you cooler in hot weather or warm in cold weather. They also allow you to connect communications like Rugged Radios or Cardo Systems to talk with other riders on a potential group ride.
When it comes to choosing the right helmet for your off-road adventure, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, it should be properly fitted, snug not loose, yet comfortable as you could be wearing it for an extended period. So, make sure there’s no room for the helmet to move around when you’re wearing it. Also, look for a helmet that meets safety standards, such as DOT or Snell approved. And finally, consider the type of terrain you’ll be driving on and choose a helmet that is designed for that purpose. For instance, if you’ll be driving in wet or muddy conditions, make sure you get a helmet with an anti-fog visor. In short, wearing a helmet is essential for any UTV or side-by-side driver being there is a high percentage it will help save your life and protect you from harm should an accident occur. It can truly mean the difference between life and death in the event of an accident. So, make sure you always consider wearing a helmet when you’re behind the wheel of a UTV or side-by-side.
Some brands to consider that we like here at UTV Source are listed below with a link to check them out!