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ATV Passengers: Why They Are Dangerous

Giving a friend, worker or child a ride on the back of an ATV feels harmless. Most ATVs are designed for one rider, and adding a second person changes how the machine behaves.

Why are ATVs built for one rider?

An ATV is steered and balanced by the rider's body. The seat, the footrests and the handlebars are arranged for one person to shift weight and react quickly. A second person sits where the rider's movement is meant to happen and restricts it.

Manufacturers state the number of riders on the machine's labels and in the manual. For most models, it is one.

Many families who have had an injury on an ATV say they did not realize how quickly it could happen. Preventing it is far easier than recovering from it.

• One rider means one rider, every time.
• Check the label for what your model allows.
• A second person is a second set of risks.

How does a passenger change the ride?

A passenger raises the weight and shifts it back, which changes how the front wheels grip and how the machine turns. The rider has less room to move, and the passenger may not know when to shift weight or hold on. Braking distance grows.

A small bump or turn can unseat the second person, who has few places to hold and no controls.

The second person is also at risk of being thrown into the rider, into the machine or onto the ground, and of falling under the vehicle if it tips.

• Less room for the rider to move and steer.
• Changed weight distribution.
• Longer stopping distance.
• Passenger with no controls and no way to brace.

What about children as passengers?

Children are especially vulnerable. They may not be able to hold on, and they may not understand the instructions. Parents sometimes ride with a child in front or behind, believing it is safer than letting a child ride alone. Safety organizations generally caution against this.

If a child needs to go somewhere, use a truck, a vehicle with a seat belt, or walk.

Teach children by example. If they see adults carrying passengers, they will believe it is fine to do the same on their own.

Are there ATVs made for two?

Some machines are designed and labeled for a passenger, with a second seat and handholds. Even then, follow the manual closely: it covers rider size, skill and limits. If the label does not say it is a two-person machine, assume it is not.

Do not add a seat or other changes unless the manufacturer allows them.

If you find yourself tempted by a longer trip with a second person, consider the extra risk of distance, tiredness and unfamiliar ground.

• Ask whether children have a better place to ride than behind an adult.
• Remember that a second person cannot steer or brake.
• Pause the trip if the ground or weather is poor.
• Put the rule where everyone can see it, such as the shop wall.
• Review it with every new worker.

What should you do instead?

Offer a ride in a truck or another vehicle with seats and belts, or arrange for two machines if each rider is trained and fits. Plan the work so people do not need to hitch a ride across a field.

If your plan relies on carrying passengers, the plan needs changing, not the rule.

Think about guests, who may not know the rules. Tell them before the day starts, and keep keys secure.

• Drive the passenger in a truck with belts.
• Use a second trained rider on a second machine.
• Change the plan so no one needs a lift across the field.

How do you set the rule on your farm?

Say it clearly: one rider, one machine, no exceptions. Explain the reason to workers, visitors and family members so that it is not about trust. Put it in your farm's safety talk and repeat it.

Adults should follow the rule too, because children follow what they see.

Review the rule at the start of each season and when new workers arrive.

What if a passenger is hurt?

Call 911. Do not move someone with a possible neck or back injury unless there is an immediate danger. Give clear directions to the location and stay with the person until help arrives.

Afterward, talk about changes you can make to prevent a repeat.

Reach out to family and friends for support if there has been an injury. Your county Extension office or the Red Cross can point you to resources.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.