Stay safe and enjoy the utility vehicle ride

Utility vehicle popularity prompts need for safe riding reminders

(ARA) - Too often we see heart-rending headlines indicating children have been injured or killed in utility vehicle accidents because they were not buckled in when the accident occurred -- even though the vehicles are equipped with seatbelts and roll-over protection. These sad stories ring out from all parts of the country, from communities struck by tragedies attributed to improper use of utility vehicles by drivers or passengers.

Due to the increased popularity of utility vehicles, reported cases of serious injury and death from unsafe operation have risen, according to the National Safety Council's Agricultural Division. These unfortunate accidents emphasize the need for enhanced education to keep operators of all ages safe when driving or riding utility vehicles.

"We spend a lot of time working outside and enjoying the great outdoors this time of year," says Greg Embury, vice president of sales and marketing, Kubota Tractor Corporation. "And while the warm weather may make you feel carefree, it's as important as ever to be careful when operating tractors, lawn and garden equipment, and particularly when driving and riding utility vehicles."

Kubota is reinforcing important recommendations and safety rules to help keep utility vehicle operators and their riders safe:

* Always read the owner's manual carefully before using a utility vehicle.
* Heed all warning labels posted on the utility vehicle, all warnings and instructions included within the owner's manual, and/or safe operating manuals or videos.
* Utility vehicles are for off-road use and should not be operated on highways, streets or other paved roads.
* Seatbelt use is imperative when driving and riding in a utility vehicle.
* Drive at safe speeds and stay alert to the changing terrain.
* Utility vehicles, depending upon the model, are designed to carry a specific number of riders other than the driver. Be certain to allow only the recommended number of riders to match the seatbelts in place for the specific utility vehicle.
* Utility vehicles are not toys and not for kids. Owners need to take extreme care to keep their families safe and allow only those who meet the manufacturer's guidelines for operation and who understand the safe operating instructions to drive the vehicle.
* Follow all directions included in the owner's manual regarding any riding gear, clothing or helmet recommendations, dependent upon utility vehicle model and manufacturer.
* Always inspect all tires, wheels and attachments to make sure they are in good working condition.

"When we work together to reinforce safe equipment operating practices, we not only protect ourselves, but also the ones we love in the process," says Embury.

When it comes to tractor safety, be sure that older tractors and equipment have a seatbelt and Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) to provide a protective zone around the operator -- greatly reducing the chances of serious injury in the case of a rollover accident. Kubota has provided a ROPS as standard equipment since 1985, but owners of earlier tractor models can visit www.kubota.com, to utilize a ROPS and seatbelt installation function that will allow them to submit their tractor's model and serial number to obtain retrofit pricing for eligible models.

Also on the site is additional safety information including the "Ten Commandments of Tractor Safety," a tractor safety coloring book and informational safety video, "It's a Family Affair."

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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