Recently there has been a dramatic increase in the popularity and sales of side-by-side utility and recreational vehicles (sometimes referred to as UTVs and ROVs). One potential reason for the increased popularity is the perceived additional safety of the side-by-side compared to a standard ATV. These side-by-sides more closely resemble passenger vehicles than ATVs because of such features as a steering wheel, bench or bucket seats, 3 point safety belts, and a roll-cage or protective structure. However, there are increasing numbers of low speed accidents on these vehicles resulting in catastrophic injuries and even deaths.

This paper will analyze the causation of these low speed accidents and will address the effectiveness of the safety features of these vehicles at protecting the occupants during such events. This paper will first address the vehicle dynamics involved and their role in the loss of control and tip-over of the vehicle. Secondly, the paper will examine various occupant restraint systems (i.e. belts and the occupant containment envelope) found on these vehicles.

Conclusions will be made addressing the shortcomings of some of the current designs, and suggestions at how to improve these will be discussed.