ATV Insurance FAQs

There are a few steps you could take to help protect your ATV investment.

• Include comprehensive coverage on your ATV policy
• Keep photos, receipts, and serial numbers for all repairs and purchases for your ATV
• Park your ATVs in a garage or shed and cover them
• Check up on your ATV, even when it is stored away
• Use a chain and/or lock, even when storing in the garage or shed

A lot of people think they don't need ATV liability insurance if they only let friends or family drive. Accidents happen, and if you accidentally injure or cause damage to someone else, you'll want to make sure you're protected. That's where ATV liability insurance can help.

Speaking of family members, many ATV policies exclude youthful operators. Make sure you know what's covered. When in doubt, give us a call to discuss ATV insurance. We're here to help.

An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is usually used for recreation and one person. A utility task vehicle (UTV) is designed for work or recreation and usually has a cabin that can accommodate 2 or more riders. The UTV is usually has more power and is more functional than an ATV. The UTV can accommodate more passengers.

GEICO insures all-terrain vehicles as well as most side by side makes and models. We do not insure three, six or eight wheelers or ATVs/UTVs with less than 150 cc's, however. Contact us today to get a free ATV or UTV insurance quote.

While you cannot stop accidents, you can lower your risk. Here are a few things that might help lower risk :

• Obey the published weight limits and don't haul extra cargo
• Don't drive with passengers if your ATV wasn't built for it
• Never operate an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Select the right spot. If possible, store your ATV in the garage along with your car. Be sure to lock and cover it to deter the risk of theft. Always remember to include ATV theft insurance when calling your GEICO representative for a quote. Homeowners policies rarely cover the cost of a stolen ATV.

Use this handy ATV maintenance checklist to make sure you are properly prepared for a season of fun and safety.

• Drain the fuel, change the oil, and install a new filter while inspecting for leaks. This can help you avoid repair bills by making sure the engine is properly maintained for the winter.
• Wash and lubricate the entire ATV. Remove all excess grime and dirt, then lubricate hardware to avoid rust.
• Take a photo of the ATV to document any repairs so you can keep track of your ATV's history.
• Check protective gear. Replace damaged or outgrown helmets, gloves, and other gear at the end of each season.
• Inspect tires and wheels. Make sure you're following the manufacturer's recommended levels of pressure without over- or under-inflating. Ensure the wheels and tires are in good condition. Replace worn tires if needed, and make sure wheel nuts are properly tightened and check for worn-out bearings.
• Inspect the brakes, foot shifter, throttle, and cables. Pay special attention to smooth operation and make sure breaks work properly.
• Check to see if lights, horn, and other miscellaneous functions are in good working condition.

New to the trails? Just want to brush up on your safety knowledge? You may be eligible for a free ATV safety course. You can visit the ATV Safety Institute site or call (800) 887-2887 to see if you qualify.

You can also get free ATV educational materials at:

ATV Safety Institute
2 Jenner Street, Suite 150
Irvine, CA 92618

Before you load your ride onto the trailer, be sure to check out the state's ATV laws. Over 40 states have passed safety laws such as helmet use and age restrictions.

Whether you're riding a trail that's in the next state or down the street, it's important to remember to "Tread Lightly." Tread Lightly is a nonprofit organization created to inform the public of how to ride responsibly and carefully in order to protect and preserve riding areas.

You can visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission to check for any ATV recalls.