The unique design of OHVs creates risks for the rider if not handled properly. This chart compares design factors of OHVs and the special risks associated with them.
| Design |
Risks/Requirements |
| Capable of traveling over rough terrain |
- Unknown hazards and obstacles, such as rocks, ruts, stumps, fences, holes, and embankments, may cause collisions and rollovers.
|
| Wide, low-pressure, knobby tires |
- May cause loss of control from wobble or bounce.
- Create unstable handling on paved roads.
|
| Fixed rear axle for traction |
- May cause loss of control on paved surfaces.
- Requires special riding skills for turns.
|
| Powerful drive train with high and low gear ratios |
- Makes it capable of speeds that are too fast for conditions and/or operator’s skill level.
- Has power to climb until it flips over backward.
|
| High ground clearance and short, narrow wheelbase |
- Requires operator to meet minimum size and weight requirements to balance the vehicle properly.
|
| Seat on top of the vehicle |
- Requires operator to maintain balance on the vehicle.
- Creates a high center of gravity.
- Can cause operator to fall or be thrown.
- Provides no protection for the operator in a collision or a rollover. In a rollover, the weight of the vehicle can crush the operator.
|
