What Is Center Of Gravity?

Most ATV operators have heard that the center of gravity is a huge factor in preventing an accident or rollover when driving an all terrain vehicle. Even still, many do not exactly understand what center of gravity is and what its effects are in accident prevention and driving safety.

A quick definition of center of gravity is the location on the object, in this case, an ATV, where the weight is distributed. If an ATV's design has a low center of gravity, the weight is closer to the ground and tip over is less likely. Should the center of gravity be higher on the vehicle, like in the case of the Yamaha Rhino ATV, the ATV will be top-heavy and roll or tip over easily.

Shifting body weight can have some effect to counterbalance the vehicle if the center of gravity is causing a rollover, but only in a few cases. The best defense against an accident is to be certain that the vehicle you are driving has a low center of gravity.

If you are the owner of or the driver of an ATV with a high center of gravity, such as the Yamaha Rhino, and have been involved in an accident, you should consult an attorney to seek compensation. Anapol Schwartz has handled many injury and wrongful death lawsuits for those who have been involved in an ATV accident where a defect in the center of gravity is a factor.