03:18 - Inspect the Fuel Filter. If you already own a zero-turn-radius riding mower, be sure to mow slowly on hills. Just because zero-turn mowers appear to be less dangerous than larger machinery like tractors, skid steers, and excavators it doesnt mean they are. Quiet, no fumes, and faster than competitors (8 MPH max speed). Decks: 52-72". 2. These arent as quick as front disc blades, which provide a better and more instant emergency braking system. Additionally, the machines engine is located on the backside. Take advantage of 180-degree maneuverability and confidently earn your stripes. Due to the speed at which these machines cut grass, they use less fuel overall and can really make a positive difference to your carbon footprint. If something goes wrong and you start to slide, we recommend steering downhill rather than with the slide. In bold is the danger and after how to reduce the risk of an accident. Its also important to operate the mower at a safe speed and to avoid sudden stops or turns that could throw the operator off the mower. The two main dangers of using a zero-turn mower on hills are: It is easy to lose control when you are on a very steep hill or if you are mowing downhill by going too fast or losing traction and sliding. I'd make sure the yard is dry or get a Ventrac. Sarahs blog, Lawn Chick, is read by over 2 million homeowners each year and she is regularly cited as an expert source of lawn care knowledge by major publications. These are used on lawn tractors, zero-turn riding mowers, and other utility vehicles with a single rear wheel. This site is owned and operated by Yard Floor. Wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves can help protect you from cuts and lacerations. Most deaths were the result of rollovers from operating on too steep of hills, close to embankments, or near bodies of water. Whenever you mow, go up and down, never across. What makes the zero-turn mowers dangerous? The most common age group for injury was 20-24 years old (22%), followed closely by 45-54 year olds (21%). You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Craftsman mowers were recalled because of fuel line connections, according to classaction.org. Friendly Community. All zero-turn mowers are not meant to be used on slopes or hills, and this is because the machine can easily overturn if you are not careful. Dont change direction on steep slopes. 5. Make sure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the mower while it is in use. With cutting decks ranging from 42 inches to pass . Recommended Gas Mowers Gas Mowers Ratings Battery. When it comes to zero-turn mowers on hills that you'd find in most yards, they work very well. If you dont have protective gear, the sharp debris can tear off your skin, resulting in a wound.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'yardfloor_com-banner-1','ezslot_9',163,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-yardfloor_com-banner-1-0'); In the case of an accident, zero-turn mowers can run over victims who fall on the ground. Using a zero-turn mower on a hill increases the chances of the mower flipping over or losing control. You may also find that it is impossible to make tight turns without lifting up the front of the machine, which can be dangerous. Before getting off the machine, remember to disengage the rotating blades. Take a look at our article all about the choke on your mower. Cub Cadet. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. I wouldnt recommend buying a zero-turn mower if you arent comfortable working with electrical components. Discussion . Most of the weight is located on the back two wheels, leaving the front wheels with very little traction. Zero-turn mowers are a type of ride-on mower that pivots on its back wheels to execute 180-degree turns with ease. Understanding these disadvantages may help you decide whether or not the benefits are worth the investment. With this electric machine, you can mow up to 2-acres per charge , fast. - Of course, as most zero turn mowers are gas-powered, there is concern about their emissions. Are Zero Turn Mowers Dangerous? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) an estimated 35,000 consumers were treated in the hospital emergency room between 2012-2014 for injuries related to riding mowers. If only they realized the most common cause for pediatric amputations among children due to lawn mower accidents according to Amputee Coalition, they would take necessary precautions. It's safer to mow at a gentle angle when your hill goes down a foot at least 4 feet. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 3. Wed like to hear! The grip is the most important element in maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower. Mowing from different angles can help you approach slippery surfaces more efficiently, but if you have the opportunity to wait for the grass to dry, it may be a better option. You can still use zero-turn lawnmowers with certain parameters checked. Required fields are marked *. A zero-turn mowers speed and agility are the most significant advantages of this kind of mower. Slopes greater than 15 degrees These incidents are partially due to the weight and center of gravity on the machine, and the types of wheels typically found on zero-turn mowers. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, How to Fix Riding Mower Making Noise When Blades Are Engaged, How to Deal with a Lawn Mower Air Filter Soaked in Oil. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! It is usually caused by coming into contact with the, Wet grass can cause the wheels to slip and make it difficult to control the machine or worse make your. Finally, take time to know your mower and all its features. Another potential danger associated with zero-turn riding lawn mowers (even those with a rollover protection system) is the risk of ejection from the mower. While there are a few disadvantages to using a zero turn mower, the most significant are: If you decide to invest your money in a zero turn mower, youll be amazed by the great speed, agility, and efficiency that these machines offer. Remove any obstacles from the lawn such as rocks, sticks, etc There shouldn't be any pets or people in the area Make sure that the ROPS bar is upright Check the seatbelt Check the blades for any damage These machines allow for easier maneuverability, but their great power can make them hazardous for both the rider and bystanders. Always keeping in mind the dangers of rolling the mower can help you stay safe when using it. Safety Measures for Operating Zero Turn Mowers, Lawn Care 101 Basics- 2022 Detailed Guide, Want to Know About Bagging Mulch? When zero-turn mowers overturn, they can cause severe injuries to the users and those nearby. Grab her free lawn care cheat-sheet: What to Do When - Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care, or upgrade your garage by browsing her favorite DIY lawn care products. Zero turn mowers usually have larger motors too so they tend to produce more pollutants. However, you should keep in mind that you are definitely compromising on a few things too. Warning Labels: Installing warning labels can be a great way to inform beginners of any parts within the mower that can cause injuries. Choose a front-steering tractor over a zero-turn-radius rider if you're mowing slopes 10 to 15 degrees or greater. Can zero turn mowers handle rough terrain? Toro is another well-known name in the zero turn with steering wheels mowers world and the TimeCutter SW4200 (42 inch cutting width) is an exemplary reason why. Zero-turn mowers are dangerous because they are engine powered, move fast, turn quickly and have the potential to roll over when operating on hills, uneven terrain, near water sources, and retaining walls. Dangerous Slides when mowing slopes The speeds that these machines can reach mean that you could easily lose control if you hit a patch of loose dirt or grass, which can be very dangerous on a slope. There were other deaths that resulted from not having safety protocols. The wheels are usually larger than those found on regular walk-behind and ride-on lawnmowers. Your mower may also run into objects or people and cause injuries. Ill talk about them here. In the event of an overturn, the seat belt and ROPS can protect you from getting crushed. To learn more visit the following pages:Advertising Policy |Privacy Policy, Get My FREE Cheat-Sheet and Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care. Operator fatigue occurs when the operator has been mowing for a long period of time and is not paying attention to their surroundings. These types of accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities and may occur for a variety of reasons, including failure to see obstacles. You will likely need to take it to a professional for any repairs that need to be carried out, which is going to cost you a lot of money. It is thereforeeasier to maneuver than other types of lawn mowers because it can revolve around its own axis without changing its forward direction. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) documents 16 deaths in 2019 and 19 deaths in 2018 as a result of operating a lawn mower in addition to numerous injuries. Deadly projectile coming from this debris poses a risk for pets, people, and even the property. Before you purchase your next mower, make sure it has these important safety options installed on your zero-turn mower. Our professional landscapers encountered being ejected from their seats and pinned beneath the machine, causing severe injury. Again, a zero turn mowers weight distribution can mean its dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. . If the mower overturns, it can cause serious injuries to the operator and anyone nearby. Obviously, anyone is unlucky enough to be hit by the blades could have very serious injuries as a result. Despite their disadvantages of ZT mowers, they are still a popular choice for many homeowners with properties of 3/4 acre or more. 2.5K views 2 years ago Mowing slopes with a zero turn mower can be dangerous even if you are a experienced operator. Traction issues are common when turning the mower left or right on steep hills. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Zero-turn mowers will start at $2,500 and only get more expensive from there. By following these guidelines, operators can reduce the risk of accidents when using a zero-turn mower. Its back wheels to execute 180-degree turns with ease unlucky enough to be hit by the could... Fatigue occurs when the operator and anyone nearby braking system anyone is unlucky to... With certain parameters checked the investment recommend buying a zero-turn mowers speed and are... Mind the dangers of rolling the mower while it is thereforeeasier to maneuver than other of. Ejected from their seats and pinned beneath the machine, causing severe injury because of fuel line connections, to! 2022 Detailed Guide, Want to know your mower may also run into objects or people and cause.... Very well disadvantages of ZT mowers, they are still a popular for! 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