PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department reminds all off-highway vehicle (OHV) drivers and passengers to ride safely by remembering to always wear a helmet.
The reminder comes after a 60-year-old grandfather died when the side-by-side OHV he was driving rolled off the side of a mountain near Lake Havasu City after 10 p.m. Tuesday, according to the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office. Neither the man nor his passenger, a juvenile who is the man’s grandson, were wearing helmets.
“Our condolences go out to the family,” said Matt Eberhart, AZGFD OHV Safety Education coordinator. “It is critically important for everyone to wear a helmet every time they ride an OHV. The sad reality is that many of these crashes are survivable, if only they were wearing a helmet.”
Helmets are required by law for all riders under the age of 18 regardless of the off-highway vehicle type. They are also strongly recommended for all riders, regardless of age. In addition, riders should remember to:
- Wear a seat belt at all times, if equipped.
- Wear riding goggles, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, riding gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
- Never ride alone.
- Be prepared and equipped with a map, a first aid kit, whistle and have basic tools on hand.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Take an OHV safety education course designed to teach off-road motorists how to ride safely and responsibly.
For more information about the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s OHV program and safety course options, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.