ATV and UTV Passenger Safety
Carrying passengers on ATVs and UTVs increases the risk of crashes, ejections, and serious injury — especially for children. Learn why passengers add danger and how to stay safe.
Utility task vehicles (UTVs) are designed for passengers, but risk increases when riders are too young or not properly restrained.
Passengers on ATVs
ATVs are not built for multiple riders
- Most ATVs are designed for one rider only.
- Safe operation depends on shifting body weight to control the vehicle.
- A passenger makes it difficult for the driver to shift properly, increasing the risk of losing control.
- Most ATVs do not have seats, handholds, or footrests for passengers
Higher risk of ejection and rollover
- Passengers are more likely to fall off or be ejected during turns or over rough terrain.
- Rear ejections are common and are associated with more severe head injuries.
- ATVs carrying passengers are more likely to roll over.
Passengers on UTVs
UTVs are built for passengers — but only if those passengers can be safely restrained.
Passenger age and size matter
- Manufacturers recommend no passengers younger than 12.
- Passengers must be able to:
- Sit with their back against the seat
- Keep their feet flat on the floor
- Remain properly secured by a seat belt or harness
If a passenger cannot meet all of these requirements, they are not large enough to ride safely. UTV passengers younger than 12 are at higher risk of ejection and injury due to improper seat belt or harness fit.
Car seats and booster seats are not safe
Car seats and booster seats are not designed or tested for use in UTVs.
- UTV crashes and rollover dynamics differ from passenger vehicles.
- A car seat may appear secure but does not provide reliable protection in a UTV.
If a child requires a car seat or booster seat in a motor vehicle, they are too small to ride in a UTV.
Key takeaways
- Never carry passengers on a single-rider ATV.
- Only allow passengers in UTVs if they meet age and size requirements.
- Always use proper restraints.
- Never allow children to ride if they cannot be safely secured.
STARs Program
UI Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital STARs Program is an educational initiative promoting 10 key safety principles to help all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) riders prevent injuries.