All Terrain Vehicles (ATV) are more than just modes of transportation. An ATV is more about spending leisure time than getting from one place to the next. Many people envision only three and four wheelers when they think of ATV’s but there are those with more traditional seating arrangements. The one commonality between all  ATV’s is the ability to tread across rough terrain. However, even these rugged machines must be drive carefully. This is especially true when the road conditions are poor. 

Driving on Different Terrain

Most surfaces are fine for driving an ATV, but one must be careful when trekking through wooded areas. There are many sticks and rocks which can topple the vehicle or jostle the rider/driver. Even in a four-seat UTV, a large rock can severely damage the vehicle’s undercarriage. These obstacles are often concealed by fallen foliage and pine needles. It’s best to drive slowly and search for established paths. Another treacherous surface is gravel. It’s very difficult for the tires to gain a purchase as the individual rocks skid across the ground.  It’s best to ride slowly across gravel surfaces and never make any sudden turns. The most dangerous of all the terrain is ice, because it poses multiple threats. The risk of hydroplaning is always immanent when crossing ice so it’s best to drive slowly. You should also avoid ice in unfamiliar areas. Whenever ice is present there may also be water. A seemingly harmless patch of ice might actually be concealing a deep puddle. If the temperature is in the low thirties, the ice can shatter and expose the vehicle, driver/rider and passengers to frigid waters. 

Even as many of us enjoy the holiday season, homelessness remains a serious problem in Oklahoma City. People often lose their homes after becoming unemployed or falling ill. Everyone can help these individuals by taking steps to support local homeless shelters:

1. Try volunteering at a nearby shelter. These organizations frequently rely on volunteers to prepare meals, clean rooms and advise residents about housing or employment. Other possible tasks include welcoming visitors to the organization or tutoring children who lack homes.

2. If you have more money than spare time, think about sending a cash contribution. Homeless shelters can’t meet all of their needs with volunteers and donated supplies. In addition to funding repairs to their buildings, they need money to pay heating and cooling bills.

3. Another option is to donate extra goods to a local shelter. For example, you could give food, clothing, books or toys. The needs of different shelters vary, so it makes sense to call ahead before dropping off such items.

4. If you own a business, there may be a number of additional ways you can help the homeless. You could place a cash donation container in the checkout area of your restaurant or shop. The IRS permits substantial tax deductions for companies that donate excess food.

5. Spread the word and remind other people about the importance of helping the homeless. For instance, you could share this blog post with friends, link to a homeless shelter on your website or write a letter about homelessness to a magazine.

Finally, remember to support local businesses. They often directly or indirectly assist nonprofit organizations in Oklahoma City. Consider purchasing insurance from an agent in your community. The helpful staff at FM Insurance has served local residents since 2006.