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Product Spotlight: Off Road Vehicles – ATVs and Snowmobiles (RideLife)

December 7, 2020/Last Updated March 3, 2021
Off-road vehicles are a growing segment in Canada. Is off-roading one of Canadians’ new favourite pastimes? In 2020 alone, 543,000 snowmobiles were registered, creating an annual $9.3 billion hobby, according to the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association.
 
ATV-ing isn’t far behind. In 2015, Canadians spent $6.9 billion on activities directly involving ATVs and recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs), also known as side-by-sides, reported by PowerSports Business. Here are 5 things you should think about before you begin your off road adventures!
 

5 ways you can stay safe and have fun on roads less traveled

 
Inspect the vehicle
 
Whether it’s an ATV, snowmobile or another type of off-road vehicle, it pays to know that it’s in good working order before heading off on a ride. Ensure that:
 
  1. There are no leaking fluids
  2. The vehicle has ample fuel
  3. The tire pressure is safe
  4. Headlights and taillights are working
  5. Things are fastened down and sturdy
Know the terrain
 
Most off-road accidents happen when the driver meets unexpected conditions. Before setting out on a ride, plot a course and research or anticipate conditions based on recent or expected weather. There’s no shame in stopping on a trail and scouting the next section by foot to figure out how you’re going to tackle it.
 
Bring the right gear
 
It goes without saying that you’re wearing and packing safety gear (helmets, outerwear for weather, phone, rope, flashlight, etc.). But, what about things like rugged floor mats in case you get stuck? Or a tow strap and winch, and extra fuel? It’s best to be prepared for anything when you’re off- roading.
 
Travel in groups
 
Heading off on your own might seem like a tranquil way to spend a day, but it can turn into a nightmare if you meet bad trail/weather conditions, or your vehicle breaks down. At the very least, take a passenger and let others know your planned route.
 
Take breaks
 
Off-roading requires mental alertness and a certain amount of physical strength. Travelling on a path you haven’t explored before can take a lot out of you. Don’t forget to schedule regular breaks to catch your breath, drink some water and give your mind and muscles a rest.
 

Aviva’s RideLife insurance program

RideLife covers off-road vehicles, such as ATVs and snowmobiles, with a standard automobile policy with physical damage options.
 
Coverage includes:
 
  1. Liability
  2. Accident benefits
  3. Direct compensation property damage
  4. Uninsured motorist
  5. Seasonal use
Optional coverages:
 
  1. Use of recreational vehicles by unlicensed operators: allows the off-road vehicle to be used on private property by unlicensed operators
  2. Collision: covers loss caused by hitting another vehicle or object by an uninsured or unidentified driver, such as a hit-and-run after a covered claim
  3. Comprehensive: covers losses from specific perils such as falling or flying objects and vandalism
  4. Family protection endorsement: extends third party liability coverage for vehicle accidents where the other motorist doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your injury claim
The content in this article is for information purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as professional or expert advice. To ensure you are getting the most out of your policy and to learn more about the recreational vehicle insurance options available to you, contact an expert at Jones & Associates Insurance today at 807-343-9444.

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