Farm Safety: UTV Safety Tips

Utility type vehicles are prominent pieces of equipment utilized in a variety of settings. The hauling features offered by UTVs have increased their popularity, availability, and use in work-related tasks in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Because of their hauling capabilities, they are helpful vehicles in residential and agricultural settings. UTVs are also referred to as “Side-by-Side” vehicles.

Description of UTV

These vehicles can have four or six wheels and are powered by diesel, gasoline engines, electric, or a hydrogen fuel cell. UTVs were designed for work purposes. Most models include a bed to enable the hauling of feed, hay, or other supplies, which makes them convenient transport for small jobs. These utility type vehicles are available from multiple manufacturers and in a variety of models.

Utility type vehicles have a steering wheel, acceleration foot pedal, and a brake foot pedal. In addition, these vehicles are designed to carry passengers. Most UTVs have side-by-side or bench seating and are equipped with a seat belt for the operator and passenger. An occupant protective structure, which commonly includes a system of tubular bars, surrounds the space where the operator and/or passenger are seated. Other protective features could include: hard plastic doors, sturdy canvas netting, or handholds. Utility type vehicles by design are to be “driven” while ATVs are to be “ridden.”

Characteristics of UTVs vs. ATVs

Safe Operation

To safely operate a utility type vehicle, the operator must use similar safe work habits as used with tractors, skid steer loaders, and ATVs. A safe, successful driver should become familiar with the machine before using it. This can be done by reading the owner’s manual and following safety labels found on the vehicle.

Here are additional safety practices to follow when driving a UTV:

• Drive slowly and turn smoothly to avoid an overturn. When hauling cargo the vehicle’s center of gravity is raised, increasing the chance of overturning.
• Drive completely up or down a slope or hill before making a turn. Don’t turn the vehicle in mid-slope o hill as this increases the probability of overturning.
• Use the appropriate speed on rough terrain. Operators and passengers have been thrown from vehicles.
• Stay clear of ditches and embankments.
• Passengers must be tall enough to reach handhold while their backs are against the seat and their feet are flat on the floorboards.
• Each passenger must ride in his/her own seat, not anywhere else on the UTV.
• Operators should be free from the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Due to the hauling purpose of a UTV, special attention should be paid to making sure cargo or material is properly secured during transport.

Since UTVs are often used to tow implements, it’s important to follow safety practices when towing a load. When towing a load, make sure the cargo box is loaded to assume good traction for driving and stopping. Be sure to tow load at a speed slow enough to maintain control. Remember, the stopping distance increases with speed and weight of a towed load. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight limits for towed equipment.

The safety practices, listed above, are recommendations of how to safely operate a UTV. As with all machinery, us the UTV as designed. Utility vehicles are tools, not toys and following the recommended safety practices will help ensure an enjoyable experience for both driver and passenger.

About the Authors

S. Dee Jepsen is the Assistant Professor and State Safety Leader at Ohio State University.

Kathy Henwood is the Agricultural Safety and Health, and Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department Program Coordinator and Ohio State University.

By S. Dee Jepsen and Kathy Henwood