If you have an ATV, UTV, or any other off-road vehicle (ORV), regular maintenance is a must. Poor ATV maintenance habits can cause your ride quality to diminish quickly. You may experience breakdowns and a host of other issues that can be avoided. If you don't know exactly what to check, our ATV and UTV maintenance checklist can help.

1. Lubricate your zerk fittings, ball joints, bushings and bearings. These parts are essential to the long-term health of your ATV. They assist with steering, suspension, and shock absorption. If you don't maintain these properly, your steering can become unpredictable and create a serious safety hazard for you and others.
2. Check the brake pads and lines. The brake pads and lines on your ATV will wear over time. You don't need to wait until they're squeaking to replace them. If they appear thin or uneven, that's a good indicator to get new ones.
3. Change and fill fluids (Follow manufacturer's recommendations). Just like with a normal car, you'll need to change and fill the fluids in your ATV regularly. Be sure to regularly monitor your:
   • Brake fluid
   • Engine coolant
   • Transmission oil
   • Gear case oils
   • Engine oil 
4. Replace or clean the filters. As with fluids, your filters will also need regular maintenance. Before your next ride, remember to check your oil and air filters.
5. Inspect the driveline and look for signs of wear. The driveline of your ATV is what transfers power to the wheels from the engine and transmission. If your driveline is faulty, you could find yourself stranded. Check for the following things:
   • Glazing
   • Cracks
   • Breaks
   • Missing cogs
   • Flat spots
   • Abrasopms 
6. Replace spark plugs. Over time, spark plugs can become worn and dirty. This could reduce your fuel economy and as a result, you'll need to fill your tank more often. You might save money by simply getting your spark plugs replaced.
7. Air up the tires and examine the tread. Your owner's manual should tell you how much air pressure you need in your tires. You can use a tire pressure gauge to see how much pressure you have. If it's below the recommended amount, add more. Additionally, be sure to examine the tread on your tires. If it's wearing down, it may be time for a new set.
8. Check all electrical wiring for cracks or exposed wires. Cracked and exposed wires are a serious hazard. If you notice that any wires are exposed are cracked, seek professional assistance immediately.
9. Inspect the body for any damages every time it's driven. While most body damage is purely cosmetic, there can be times where it is a safety hazard. For example, if your bumper or wheel well is dented in, it could eventually start to rub up against your tire, potentially causing it to pop while you're riding. Even if it seems like it's not a big deal now, it may be a good idea to get any body damage checked by a professional.
10. Wash the vehicle (especially after muddy rides!). You want your ride to look good, right? Of course! Besides wanting that squeaky clean shine, failing to wash your vehicle can cause certain parts to rust. In some cases, this could lead to a loss in functionality.

We suggest you create a regular ATV maintenance schedule to keep your UTV in good shape and ride safe!

If you're looking for ATV insurance, UTV insurance, or insurance for another off-road vehicle (ORV), you can get a quote with Foremost® today!

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/atv-maintenance-checklist.asp

ATVs and other off-road vehicles are adaptable to many situations. With that being said, you can't always predict what will happen on off road adventures. If you need to perform emergency maintenance, it will help to be equipped with the proper tools. To prepare yourself in advance, Foremost® Insurance recommends keeping the following items in your ATV emergency kit.

1. Air pump and tire repair kit. When traveling off road you're more likely to encounter various bumps in the road, like rocks or even holes, that can flatten your tire. If you have a tire repair kit handy, you should be able to patch small holes. Many repair kits come with air pumps, but it may be a great idea to bring an extra one just in case.
2. Tool kit. It helps to have a tool kit handy if you can. If you need to remove a tire or access a part of the vehicle that's enclosed under something else, you may need more than just your hands to get the job done.
3. Duct Tape. While we don't recommend using duct tape for any serious repairs, it may be able to temporarily patch a leak in a water hose or radiator bottle, for example, which can buy you enough time to get to a repair shop. Additionally, duct tape can be useful if you or someone else falls off a vehicle. We highly recommend seeking professional medical attention in this situation, but if someone twist their ankle, using duct table can help to stabilize it until you get to a medical facility.
4. A knife. A knife can be useful if you or someone you're with has an injury, as it can be used to cut bandages and wrapping torniquets. Whether you opt for a Swiss army knife or a regular pocket knife is up to you. A Swiss army knife may apply to more situations overall, but in terms of practicality, a pocket knife may be enough.
5. Jumper cables. Of course, jumper cables will be useful if you or someone else's vehicle loses battery power. We recommend always keeping these with you.
6. First aid kit. First aid kits can be useful for treating minor scratches and bruises. With the unpredictable terrain of off-road adventures, you never know when you'd need these.
7. Bug spray. It's not uncommon to encounter bugs when you're off roading. If you don't want those pesky creatures bothering you, keep some bug spray in the vehicle. This way if you forget to put some on before you head out, or if it wears out, you'll always have some to reapply.
8. Spare tire. While we do advise keeping a tire repair kit, they don't work in every situation. There may be times when a tire is damaged beyond repair. In this case, you'll need a spare tire.
9. Spare parts. You should keep a spare of the following parts: belt, spark plug, tie-rods, and ball joints. While these require a bit of handy work to replace, if you don't have any spares on hand, you may become stranded.
10. Tow strap. If you do become stranded, you will need someone to tow your vehicle to a safe place. We advise you to keep a tow strap on hand in case this happens.

To lessen your changes of having emergency situations, please ride safely.

If you're looking for ATV insurance, UTV insurance, or insurance for another off-road vehicle (ORV), you can get a quote with Foremost today!

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/atv-trail-riding-survival-kit.asp

There have been times in my life when I've felt severely unprepared. I remember starting drivers training and getting behind the wheel for the first time with my instructor, nervously thinking to myself, We've only talked about driving in the classroom—I don't think I'm ready to be on the roads! And during my time as a college student, I've known the horror of being caught off guard by spontaneous pop quizzes. I've even found myself at the starting line of a 25K road running race, regretfully wishing that I had spent more than just two weeks training for the event.

Recalling these experiences makes me glad I was not negligent my first time riding an ATV. This time, I felt prepared. I had carefully learned the rules of riding safely, I was wearing the proper gear, and I was on trails designated for off-road vehicles with other experienced and responsible riders. This preparation gave me confidence and allowed me to relax and enjoy the ride. It was an absolute blast!

Riding an ATV can be thrilling, but also dangerous, so it's important to brush up on how to ride safely before you hit the trails. Whether you are a new rider learning for the first time or an ATV veteran in need of a quick refresher, here are ten tips for being prepared and staying safe on your off-road adventures:

1. Wear protective gear.
   
   Helmets, goggles, boots and gloves are essential. There are no seatbelts or windshields on ATVs, so you need to be prepared in case of falling, flipping, or getting hit with rocks, branches or bugs.
   
   
2. Conduct a pre-ride inspection.
   
   Before jumping on your ATV for a joyride, check the tires and rims for damage, ensure all cables are intact, examine the chain for worn links, and ensure there's enough lubrication where there needs to be.
   
   
3. Never ride alone.
   
   Crashing, getting lost, running out of gas, and other accidents happen, so it's always a good idea to have other riders with you. You should also be sure to carry a cell phone or walkie-talkie so you can call for help in emergency situations.
   
   
4. Don't drive under the influence.
   
   Drinking and driving isn't safe in a car or on a motorcycle, and it's not safe on an ATV either. Alcohol impairs your reaction time, thinking process and judgment, so never operate any vehicle after you've been drinking.
   
   
5. Take a break when tired.
   
   ATV riding requires strength and mental acuity. If you begin to feel fatigued while riding, don't push yourself. Take a break, rehydrate, and eat some food to reenergize before your next ride.
   
   
6. Allow only one rider at a time.
   
   Most ATVs are designed for only one rider at a time, so inviting passengers to jump on with you is extremely dangerous. Always choose to ride solo because the weight of two or more people will make the ATV unstable and more difficult to control.
   
   
7. Ride in appropriate settings.
   
   ATVs are not designed to be driven on concrete or asphalt, so avoid roads and streets. It's best to seek out designated riding areas because riding on improper terrain could cause damage or increase the likelihood of rolling your ATV.
   
   
8. Be aware of the surroundings.
   
   Don't be oblivious to potential hazards. Take time to learn about your location by memorizing where steep hills, bumps, sharp turns and other tricky areas are. Also be attentive and focused on steering clear of other riders.
   
   
9. Ride the right size.
   
   Don't attempt to ride an ATV that seems either too big or too small. If the size isn't a good fit, you could either have great difficulty controlling the vehicle or increased chances of flipping and falling off.
   
   
10. Don’t attempt tricks or stunts.
    
    There's no need to show off or test the limits of what your off-road vehicle can do. ATV tricks and stunts are very dangerous for both you and those around you, so never ride beyond your ability or try anything you know isn't safe.
    ​

Before you take off on an adrenaline-filled and action-packed off-road adventure, remember to make safety your priority. Putting these tips into practice will help you to be prepared, prevent accidents, and make the most of your ATV experience.

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/off-road-adventures-staying-safe-on-your-atv.asp

What do outdoor adventures look like for you? Whether it's an ATV, UTV, dirt bike, dune buggy, golf cart or other off-road vehicle (ORV), you'll want to make sure you have the right type of insurance coverage to protect your toys. It's important to ask your independent insurance agent the right questions about what type of coverage you're seeking and customize it to fit your lifestyle. To help you get started, we put together the following list of questions after speaking with Kevin Henry, the Director of Product Management at Foremost® Insurance.


1. What typical coverages are available for ATV/UTVs?

"Ask your agent or broker about standard coverages that are available, as well as optional ones you might consider," says Henry. "Standard coverages include Collision, Other Than Collision, Liability and Medical Payments. They help provide coverage for damage to your ATV itself or damage or injury that you may cause while riding your ATV."


2. Is my safety apparel covered?

"Whether it's helmets, goggles or other clothing that helps minimize injuries from an accident, most companies will offer safety apparel coverage for when these things get damaged," says Henry. "We want riders to be as safe as possible while enjoying the outdoors, so we encourage wearing safety gear."


3. Is there optional equipment coverage available?

"Most people have customized or added options to their ATVs," Henry explains. "Optional Equipment coverage helps cover things like towable trailers, racks and winch kits for your ATV."


4. Am I able to insure my ATV/UTV year-round?

"Year-round coverage is definitely something you may want to consider," answers Henry. "Some policies have a lay-up period for colder weather when you may not be able to ride. But when an unusually warm day comes around and you want to take your ATV out, you might be stuck without coverage. A year-round policy lets you take it out whenever Mother Nature's providing good weather and, with some companies, you can do this for the same price as seasonal coverage."


5. What kinds of discounts are available?
​
"Everybody wants to save money," Henry shares. "Ask what's available for you. Some companies, like Foremost, offer discounts for things like multi-units, multi-policies, maintaining continuous coverage when you renew and for having prior off-road vehicle insurance."
Your safety is number one to us. Stay safe wherever you choose to go on your off-road vehicle.


Looking for ATV insurance? Get a quote today by calling 561-768-8176 to speak with a licensed agent.

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/top-questions-to-ask-about-off-road-vehicle-insurance.asp

Some people have trails or areas where they can ride their Off-Road Vehicles at home, but others may have to take their ORVs somewhere else to ride. For instance, many people take their Golf Carts with them when camping or haul their ATVs and UTVs to designated riding trails. To get your ORV to these places, you'll probably want to tow it with a trailer. If you've never towed an ORV with a trailer before, follow these steps to keep your ORV from moving around or falling off!

1. Connect and secure the trailer to your towing vehicle. Be sure that your vehicle is fit for a trailer and can tow the weight of your ORV. The trailer size needed will vary based on the type of ORV you're hauling. Attach the ball of the hitch to the hitch of the trailer. Fasten all latches and secure them with a pin or lock, and don't forget to hook the chains!
2. Lower or attach the loading ramp(s). Some trailers have built-in ramps that either lower or fold away. If your trailer doesn't have either of these, I'd suggest purchasing a portable ramp suitable for your ORV. Lifting an ORV onto a trailer is dangerous — especially if you're alone.
3. Slowly drive the ORV onto the trailer. Once the ramp is secured, either put the vehicle in neutral and push or slowly drive the vehicle onto the trailer. If you go too fast, the wheels could spin and slip. Don't forget to wear a helmet!
4. Establish proper weight distribution. Place the ORV toward the front of the trailer (closest to the towing vehicle) so that about 60 percent of the weight is at the front. Make sure your parking brake is on once you've got it in the right spot!
5. Strap it in. Use ratchet straps to keep the ORV in place while you drive. Do not attach them to your axels, suspension or any other non-sturdy part — these parts could bend from the pressure of the straps. Check your owner's manual for recommended places to attach straps on the vehicle. Connect the straps to built-in hooks on the trailer, then tighten the straps so the ORV is sturdy and will move as one with the trailer.
6. Raise or remove the loading ramp(s). Now that the ORV is in place, put the ramp away. Place it inside of the bed of the truck (if this is your towing vehicle), or secure it in the trailer — you'll need it when unloading the ORV.
7. Hit the road! You're all ready to head out on your adventure. If you haven't driven a trailer in a while, refresh your memory on the dos and don'ts of towing and take it slow!

Sources:
https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/towing-an-orv-with-a-trailer.asp
https://www.golfstorageguide.com/how-to-tow-a-golf-cart-on-a-trailer/
https://www.tires-easy.com/blog/towing-atv-trailer-tires/