If you’re a UTV driver, it’s of the essence to be aware of UTV rollovers. These can occur on any terrain for a variety of reasons. Fortunately, the likelihood of UTV rollovers is low.
Each year, there are over 800 ATV rollover deaths. Although it is far safer to drive a UTV than it is an ATV, it’s best to be prepared now than to be caught off guard if an accident occurs. While your UTV is designed to take a beating, the human body is not.
UTV rollovers are a huge deal because they usually involve cargo being carried or towed, as well as drivers who don’t want to lose said cargo. There are only a few rollover concerns you can immediately identify with a glance; most notably are the narrow track width and high center of gravity present in most machines. Some of these potentially dangerous behaviors that aren’t as easily spotted are severe understeering and severe oversteering. This will cause your UTV to act sluggish, and it’s usually followed by a violent snap.
Rollovers can be divided into two categories, which are performance rollovers versus utility rollovers. A performance rollover is likely to occur when you are pushing your UTV to the limit, whereas utility rollovers are accidents that occur when you are driving your UTV with caution and you suddenly lose control of the situation. Avoid performance rollovers by not forcing your UTV into activities that it is not specifically designed to do. While your UTV is designed to handle exhilarating events, it is ultimately a utility task vehicle designed for work. As far as UTV modifications go, you can add a door to your vehicle, but that will only protect your legs in the event of a rollover. Although roll cages are an extreme UTV modification, these are the best way to ensure your safety in the event of an accident.
The absolute worst move you can take if your UTV rolls over is to stick your arms and legs outside of your vehicle. Kinetic energy, several hundred pounds of steel, and the hard ground will all work against your bones. Keeping loads in a cargo container can help stabilize your UTV, but at the same time, it can add unnecessary stress to your suspension. Know the maximum weight limit that your UTV can carry, and do not overload your UTV. Try your best to avoid excessive speed when driving over rough terrain. Most side-by-sides that are used for work purposes will experience little intentional suspension abuse because many models are equipped with just enough to get you by. Exercise caution when you drive over bumps because hitting a big bump when you’re going at full speed can cause an uneven return to the ground. Poor UTV suspension can result in a rollover.
Your UTV can certainly be used for exciting events, but the key is to not push your UTV too far. This should go without saying but always wear your seatbelt to avoid a costly hospital stay.
If you have any questions about safe UTV usage, or you’re in the market for accessories for your vehicle, contact our experts at UTV Windshields & Accessories today.
