IRVINE, CALIF., Sept. 4, 2020 — Labor Day weekend beckons many to get outside with family and friends for off-road rides and adventures. The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America encourage everyone to recreate safely and responsibly.
“Riding ATVs and side-by-sides are the perfect way to have fun with family and friends while maintaining the recommended six feet of social distance. We call this Recreational Distancing,” said Erik Pritchard, president and CEO of ROHVA and SVIA. “Although Labor Day is the official end of summer, we still have months of good riding left this year.”

For anyone newly inspired to ride or drive off-road, the best way to get started is with proper training. Riders can start with a free online e-Course at ATVSafety.org and ROHVA.org, then find a nearby hands-on course.
And all riders and drivers are also encouraged to adhere to these safety rules:

• Always stay on trails, routes, and designated areas for off-highway vehicle use and ride/drive at a safe speed;
• Wear all the appropriate safety gear, including a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves;
• Never ride/drive on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law — another vehicle could hit you;
• Follow the minimum age requirements for operating or being a passenger on/in the vehicle; and
• Never ride/drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Make sure you also check your local weather forecast, bring enough water and snacks, and travel in a group.

More safety tips and guidelines can be found at ATVSafety.org and ROHVA.org.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America
The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America is the not-for-profit national industry association promoting the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) through rider training, public awareness campaigns, and state legislation. Additionally, SVIA works to preserve access to off-road riding areas and expand riding opportunities. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration, and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., SVIA is sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; BRP, Inc.; CFMOTO Powersports, Inc.; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; KYMCO USA, Inc.; Polaris Inc.; Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.; Textron Specialized Vehicles; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. Visit SVIA online at svia.org. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit atvsafety.org, or call (800) 887-2887.

The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association

The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association is the not-for-profit national industry association promoting the safe and responsible use of ROVs (also called side-by-sides or UTVs). Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), ROHVA develops standards for the equipment, configuration, and performance requirements of ROVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., ROHVA is sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; BRP, Inc.; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; Mahindra Vehicle Sales and Services, Inc.; Polaris Inc.; Textron Specialized Vehicles; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. For more information visit rohva.org.