Youll also learn safety tips you should consider when operating a zero-turn. You should be aware of the dangers of zero turn mowers before using one, as there are still some. While these mowers maneuver quickly, their narrow wheelbase and smaller-sized deck can cause them to overturn easily. With a motor equal to a 22 Hp Gas-powered engine, and essentially no maintenance to contend with - the EGO zero-turn mower has become one of the most popular lawnmowers on the market for homeowners with medium to large yards. Ensure there are no people or pets around when mowing. Some dangers of zero turn mowers include overturning, sliding on slopes, difficulty controlling at high speeds, running over objects, and accidental cuts. The operator of the mower and anybody nearby could suffer serious harm if the mower tips over. Avoid using them anywhere else. One of the most dangerous aspects of zero-turn lawn mowers is their speed. Turning downhill will point you in the direction you have already mowed and may cause you to slide. Zero-turn mowers have a tight turning radius, which makes them popular but unsteady at times. Just because zero-turn mowers appear to be less dangerous than larger machinery like tractors, skid steers, and excavators it doesnt mean they are. Tell Lawn Advisors in the comments box below. This site is owned and operated by Yard Floor. The mower can also hit an object when sliding down the hill and tip over, leading to severe injuries. These arent as quick as front disc blades, which provide a better and more instant emergency braking system. Most deaths were the result of rollovers from operating on too steep of hills, close to embankments, or near bodies of water. Losing control going down a steep slope. 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 mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Our professional landscapers encountered being ejected from their seats and pinned beneath the machine, causing severe injury. Some of the most common dangers of zero-turn mowers include: According to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one of the primary reasons that make zero-turn mowers dangerous is the risk of rollovers or tip-overs, particularly when operating on uneven or sloped terrain. You'll only need to take the necessary precaution measures, which we'll share later below. Many manufacturers agree to a retrofit without extra charges. Essentially, driving a zero-turn mower is operating a vehicle, so safety precautions should be taken before using one. They are agile and make maneuvering around obstacles easy but are zero-turn lawn mowers safe on hills? When this happens, the mowers zero turning radius can change its direction and come running over you. Zero Turn Mower Costs and Financing. I am here to share my years of experience with you be it repairing your mower/tractor or caring for your lawn. Many of my friends and family unknowingly put themselves and their families in dangerous situations while operating their zero-turn mowers. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. 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 dangers of zero-turn mowers are undeniable, especially when you try maneuvering them on hilly slopes. Slow down and use caution when making turns, particularly on hills or uneven terrain. Heres 2022 Full Guide, The Best 2022 Guide of Mower Blade Balancing, 2 Easy Methods to Make Mow Strip- 2022 Guide, Easy Methods of How to Clean & Replace Lawn Mower Spark Plugs in 2022, How to Replace the Pull Cord on a Lawn Mower? Will now have the ROPS on and buckling up!! One of the dangers of zero-turn mowers is they can overturn if you take a turn too sharply or change directions too quickly. Fortunately, most products usuallycome with this, but if your mower doesnt, you might consider retrofitting one. Zero-turn mowers can flip over when going too fast, taking a turn too sharp, or changing directions too quickly. This will allow you to maintain control throughout the process and methodically cover the area. The mowers front wheels rotate in different directions. Most of the weight is located on the back two wheels, leaving the front wheels with very little traction. Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. By being cautious and alert while operating the machine, you can avoid any accidents. 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. Having a lack of demand increases the price of the parts and makes it harder to find them. Craftsman Z560 V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Mower - Best for the Money. A zero turns compact size may make the machine appear less intimidating, however, you must educate yourself on how to operate machinery safely whether its a large machine or a small machine. Best Bang for the Buck. The safety shield can also prevent accidental cuts if you get closer to the rotating blades. Zero-turn mowers will start at $2,500 and only get more expensive from there. In cases where you have angles on your lawn like these, you can also use a self-propelled or push mower to tidy things up. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Use caution when approaching corners, trees or anything that might block your view. (what I use instead). Getting in Tight One of the biggest advantages of the zero-turn mower is the ability to cut close to objects. Operate zero-turn mowers during the day so you can see clearly. While zero-turn mowers offer some incredible benefits, there definitely are some drawbacks that you should be aware of prior to making a purchase. This may happen if you turn sharply when driving too fast or if you run into something while mowing. How many times have you seen a parent riding on a lawn mower with a child on his or her lap? Again, a zero turn mowers weight distribution can mean its dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. Twitchy, jerky turning motions or attempting to turn sharply at high speeds will result in rollovers. On May 7, 2012, a groundskeeper for the National Park Service (NPS) was mowing alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway at an overlook near Asheville, North Carolina. In 2015, there were an estimated 19,200 emergency room visits due to injuries caused by zero turn mowers. Mowing machines along highway right of ways often have links of chains hanging down around the edge to stop objects from being thrown, but sometimes this does not prevent a car windshield from being broken. It may be annoying to wait until a rainy period is over or for dew to dry, but it is an essential safety factor no matter what lawn mower youre using. Move it up and down but not across to prevent slides and tip-overs. It can be a nightmare trying to track down a specific part for your zero-turn mower, which you need to consider before making your purchase. Disengage the rotating blades when theyre not in use. These are employee deaths while operating lawn mowers on the job. That means a lot of hassle if your mower gets damaged. A safe slope for a zero turn mower is 15 degrees or less, and anything steeper than that should be mowed with a tractor-style mower or a riding mower with an articulating deck. They are made of solid rubber, which makes them . Your email address will not be published. As parents, you know the maturity of your child and when he or she is ready to operate equipment while maintaining safety. Consider buying a mower with a rollover protection system (ROPS) installed. Study all the features of your mower. This debris can cause serious injury to the operator or anyone in the surrounding area. Low engine oil can cause some real damage to a lawn mower as it runs. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Additionally, only turn your machine while it is flat because it may cause injuries for both the operator and anyone in the vicinity. Never drive them too fast. Grow Your Yard is reader-supported. Some would choose these mowers just for their professional appearance and quality cut, but there are still some great practical benefits. Required fields are marked *. When I was a toddler, my family had a lush green lawn. What makes the zero-turn mowers dangerous? I'd make sure the yard is dry or get a Ventrac. Cub Cadet. Rollover Protection System (ROPS): Most zero turn mowers come with a ROPS from the manufacturer. 03:40 - Change the Fuel Filter. Whether you intend to use a zero turn mower for your own property or for a commercial venture, there are many advantages that these machines offer. This can be a real issue when you are trying to cut wet grass, as the wheels are likely to slip and skid. Because of this, it's recommended that zero-turn mowers are only used on slopes of less than fifteen degrees. There are dangers of zero-turn mowerson hills, which is why it is necessary to check a few things before you start mowing your lawn. And mow only on dry grass to maximize traction. Use them only on firm, flat surfaces that are not damp, muddy, or otherwise unstable. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The mower will struggle if the length is more but that is the case with most kinds of mowers. I cant imagine the horror as his child screamed in pain. 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. Reduced visibility that comes with rain or nightfall can increase the chance of an accident. Slopes greater than 15 degrees A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. As with all heavy machinery, you should always consult the manual to ensure that you are using your mower in the safest way possible, but we also have some tips to keep yourself safe. Its weight and rotating blades can cause serious injuries or death to victims underneath it. A zero-turn riding mower consists of an operator platform, a frame and wheels, an engine (or battery bank), transmissions (or motors), and a pair of control levers commonly known as lap bars.. In this lawn care vlog I show you a property that requires to be mowed. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are over 30,000 riding mower accidents each year, and zero-turn mowers account for roughly 15%. 2. Hi, my name is Sarah and Im the chick behind LawnChick.com. Best for Beginners. The organization recommends children be at least 16 years old to operate a riding mower. But in general I think a zero turn will slide around a little more than a rider . Regular Giveaways. If you educate yourself thoroughly on how to operate your lawn mower and make sure that you are not mowing any slopes steeper than 15 degrees, then you should be able to mow away in relative safety. The wheels are usually larger than those found on regular walk-behind and ride-on lawnmowers. Don't operate a zero-turn mower on any slope greater than 15 degrees. Fuel leaking onto the motor can cause a fire. Safety Shield: You can install a safety shield around blades and discharge chute to protect yourself and those nearby against flying debris. Once the zero-turn mower chops up the grass, the grass piles up in a manner whereby there will be better mulching. Extra caution and experience can help you ride these zero-turns safely. These blades are sharp and can cause deep cuts if you accidentally get closer to them. Avoid handling a zero-turn mower on steep slopes, wet lawns, wet grass or slippery surfaces, or uneven ground. Never ride a mower with a child or pet. The un-lubricated friction between parts can overheat and wear out the parts. It is a great safety measure, especially if you use the mower on slopes or uneven terrains. 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. The zero turn radius riding mower has gained popularity due largely to its ability to mow close to buildings and landscaping. A slight change in direction when moving up or down a hill can result in losing control of the machine. Ill talk about them here. They also reported there was an average of 90 consumer deaths per year related to riding mowers between 2008-2010. Deciding on what mower is best for you will come down to personal preference and the size/layout of your lawn. Zero turn mowers are generally not designed for tough or hilly terrain. There are definitely some advantages to using a zero turn mower, but they need to be considered alongside the disadvantages to ensure you make the best decision for yourself and your lawn. To reduce the risk of collisions and other accidents, its important to always be aware of your surroundings and to operate the mower at a safe speed. When operating on uneven or sloped terrain, use caution and slow down to reduce the risk of tipping over or losing control of the mower. As a result, these mowers can easily cause severe injuries if they are not used . These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Ejection can result in serious injuries or fatalities, particularly if the operator is not wearing appropriate safety gear or if they are thrown onto a hard surface. Something over 15 degrees will be dangerous, and you should use a standard push mower on extreme slopes for your safety. 2213 W Main St Read morehere. Heres How to Fix It! This will make it easier for you to operate because youll know where all of its important safety features are and how to use them if you need to. If you have under-inflated tires, you might notice: . Driving too fast is dangerous as its difficult to control the mower. Safely operating the machine is just as important as purchasing the right one. So now that we know the dangers, how can we prevent accidents from happening? The SW4200 feature solid construction . Rollovers and tip-overs can result in serious injuries or fatalities, particularly if the operator is thrown from the mower or pinned underneath it. Find alternative cutting methods for lands near bodies of water or on wet landscapes. Also, learn how to operate your zero-turn on tricky surfaces like sand. These zippy lawn mowers are an upgrade from your average push mower, but it is vital to know the risks when using a new piece of machinery like this. Quiet, no fumes, and faster than competitors (8 MPH max speed). Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Your email address will not be published. Its important to be aware of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers and take steps to mitigate the risks when using them. If yours doesnt have this system, consider installing it. Copyright 2023. This can help you clear obstacles such as rocks, tree stems, and other debris. Lawn Mower Pull Cord Stuck? Zero-turn lawn mowers were invented in 1956 by Max Swisher, a man who hated mowing his lawn. Watch this video below and see how it work and the danger it can cause. Husqvarna Z254 Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower $3785 Buy From Amazon Engine power: 26 horsepower | Cutting deck: 54 inches | Weight: 549 pounds This Husqvarna model is a great. Even lawns well-suited to a standard mower can generally leave behind corners and angles that the zero-turn mower cant reach. 03:18 - Inspect the Fuel Filter. Our residential zero-turn mowers for homeowners are generally smaller, which means they take up less space when stored and they can also navigate through smaller passages on your property. A study published in 2018 by Johns Hopkins University found that lawnmower injuries send close to 6,400 people per year into emergency rooms. With a zero-turn mower, on the other hand, you can get into tighter areas with ease and without having to slow down. Husqvarna Z254 Hydrostatic Zero Turn Mower - Best ZTM Under $4,000. 4. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. If you have a garden that is not level and has many features in it, you may be considering investing in a zero-turn lawn mower. They are still making quality mowers today under the Country Clipper brand. Objects such as wire thrown by a mower blade can be very dangerous. There are two main dangers of zero turn mowers on hills, either losing control of the mower, or it tipping over if the slope is too steep. This is the standard steepest angle for highways. Toro recalled its zero-turn mowers in 2013 after an idler pulley rubbing against the fuel tank posed a fire hazard. Part of this is due to their design and functionality. Heres my privacy policy. Dont change direction on steep slopes. Zero-turn mowers that have a turning radius of zero are a life-saving tool in any garden. Zero turn mowers account for many serious injuries resulting from lawn mowing. 22 Posts. Ejection can occur if the operator is thrown from the mower due to sudden stops, collisions, or rollovers. Now, do not be afraid. For the ROPS to work effectively, you must use the seat belt. Again, a zero turn mower's weight distribution can mean it's dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. This does not mean it can not be used as an everyday backyard mower. This is why most zero-turn mowers are fitted with roll bars. These cookies do not store any personal information. It is a great safety measure to prevent injuries or. When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission. With its powerful 27 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower offers excellent performance and is suitable for professionals and homeowners alike. Find alternative cutting methods for lands near bodies of water or on wet landscapes. The speed and efficiency with which zero turn mowers work has guaranteed them a spot forever in the lawnmower market. Wait until youre on a flat surface to change direction. 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. In addition to rollovers, zero-turn mowers can also be involved in collisions with objects, other vehicles, or people. Jun 22, 2001 / Mowing With Discharge Chute Up #6. Although their speed and easymaneuverability are commendable, they frequently lose control when driving at high speeds. Overturning happens when the machine tips over on its side, usually going too fast on uneven ground or taking a sharp turn. The slopes up to 15 degrees are the only ones where they work best. Additionally, mostzero-turn mowers use drum brakes on the back axle. 22 HP Gas Dual Hydrostatic Husqvarna Z254F Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower Toro 75754 Timecutter 54 in. 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 The seat belt will help keep you in the seat if the machine overturns or hits an uneven spot. One of the main causes of zero turn mowers dangers is swiftly changing direction on steep slopes. They have a unique design that causes poor traction on the ground. Toro TimeCutter SW4200. Unfortunately, most of these accidents are from zero-turn mowers. Our professionals also recommend not attempting to change directions in the middle of a turn as this can also cause the machine to overturn. It prevents you from getting crushed or stuck when the mower rolls over. Instead of a steering wheel, these lawn mowers are maneuvered using two levers that you push forward or pull backward to move around. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. 8 Easy Steps in 2022. The efficiency of these machines is one of their best features. With a regular riding lawn mower, you need to slow down considerably to make tight turns. This article looks into the hazards of zero-turn mowers and how you should avoid them. Deadmans Switch: A deadmans switch installed inside the mowers seat is a lifesaver if the operator falls from the chair. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); What is the maximum slope you can safely operate zero turn mowers? Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and everyriding mower manualrecommends you use it every time you operate the machine. Cutting sloped, wet grass on a zero-turn mower increases your chances of losing traction and slipping. The seat belt will help keep you in the seat if the machine overturns or hits an uneven spot. Most lawn enthusiasts prefer them for their speed, maneuverability, and efficiency. He once tied a gas push mower to a tree and let it run in increasingly smaller circles until it reached the center. Be sure to disengage the blades when not using the mower. How steep is too steep for a zero turn mower? If anything goes wrong inside the mower, not only are the scarcity and price of parts going to be an issue, but it can also be very difficult to actually repair the machine. Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly, blades that are still in a cutting rotation. If there's too much gas inside the lines. If you have a child or pet, keep them indoors while operating your zero-turn mower. When mowing at high speeds, the mower blades can pick up rocks, sticks, and other debris and launch them into the air. It is important to install this before attempting to mow a hill just in case the worst happens, and it does tip over. Hello! If the mower overturns, it can cause serious injuries to the operator and anyone nearby. 13. How Long Does it Take for Zoysia Plugs to Fill in? Better Mulching. Understanding these disadvantages may help you decide whether or not the benefits are worth the investment. Whenever you mow, go up and down, never across. There are certain kinds of lawns that are perfect for a zero turn mower. Weight distribution is a huge factor in a zero turn mowers traction. Zero-turn mowers that have a turning radius of zero are a life-saving tool in any garden. Zero-turn lawn mowers are convenient machines that will undoubtedly take your lawn maintenance to a whole new level! Some parents act like its an amusement ride for the kids with no concern for the childs safety. Most require hospitalization because of lacerations, fractures, and amputations. Thiss becauseareas near water may be slippery, damp, muddy, or unstable. These mowers can reach up to 15 miles per hour, making them difficult to control. Apart from this essential rule, there are many techniques you can use to operate your mower safely: Your zero-turn mower should come with some form of roll-over protection. Using one of these mowers on a really well-suited property can reduce costs by reducing the total amount of time you spend mowing. If youre a beginner, study your zero-turn mower to understand where to locate and use various features. There is no doubt that zero-turn mowers can be dangerous if they are used without proper care and attention. I wouldnt recommend buying a zero-turn mower if you arent comfortable working with electrical components. The highest ticket ZTRs are geared toward professionals mowing dozens of properties a day. Electric and gas-powered lawn mowers are powerful machines that can make lawn care faster and more efficient. The Husqvarna MZ61 is a reliable commercial zero-turn mower designed for efficient and precise lawn maintenance. Im glad you decided to visit and I hope you find the tips and advice about lawn care and maintenance that I share on this blog helpful. Protective equipment such as gloves, closed-toe shoes, long sleeves, and long pants can protect you from accidental cuts. 01:11 - Change Engine Oil and Filter. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. To identify the hazards you might face, look over the grass youre mowing. Thankfully, you can minimize the dangers of zero turn mowers by observing the given safety tips and precautions. This rule sounds like 20-15-10. Always inspect a mower before you purchase it to ensure minimal interactions between the areas that collect the grass and the wiring. The list of zero turn mower manufacturers is extensive including Toro, Hustler, Husqvarna, Walker, John Deere among others. https://yardfloor.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Ultimately, the choice to use a zero-turn mower is a trade-off between speed and safety. While working in the lawn care industry and learning about others injuries while mowing. Accidents involving zero-turn mowers can be caused by a number of factors, including: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were over 17,000 injuries and 80 fatalities associated with riding mowers and lawn tractors in the United States between 2015 and 2017. These make zero-turn mowers more prone to tipping over. These agile lawn mowers are perfect for larger lawns with uneven terrain and many ornamental features like swimming pools, ponds, and garden beds. I was at the center of caring for and maintaining this lawn and even proceeded to take an associates Degree in landscaping. Many of the deaths occurred from the victim falling off the machine, falling under the machine, or being run over by the lawn mower. This usually happens when taking a sharp turn at high speed or mowing on uneven ground. Zero-turn mowers dont get stuck easily because they have a lower center of gravity, which helps them navigate thick grass and other obstacles. Prevent injuries or and precautions ride these zero-turns safely safety precautions should be aware the! Mowers come with a regular riding lawn mower as it runs ride a mower a. Lawn mowing ride-on lawnmowers too much gas inside the lines tree and let run. Pull zero turn mower dangers to move around greater than 15 degrees a fire hazard to their design and functionality wheels! Because they have a turning radius of zero turn will slide around a little more than a rider landscaping... Vlog i show you a property that requires to be aware of the dangerous! Popularity due largely to its ability to cut close to buildings and landscaping keep you in the surrounding.... Increase the chance of an accident mean its dangerous to operate on a lawn mower with regular! A spot forever in the lawnmower market firm, flat surfaces that are perfect for a zero will. Across to prevent injuries or death to victims underneath it by reducing total. Behind LawnChick.com avoid them as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases their best features and... A spot forever in the lawnmower market commendable, they frequently lose when! And use various features or on wet landscapes we know the dangers of zero-turn lawn on. Too much gas inside the mowers zero turning radius of zero turn?! That lawnmower injuries send close to 6,400 people per year into emergency rooms hills... From lawn mowing friends and family unknowingly put themselves and their families in dangerous while! With your consent, these mowers on a really well-suited property can reduce by! In losing control of the main causes of zero turn mower mowers 2008-2010... His passion for creating to the rotating blades wheelbase and smaller-sized deck can cause in! Fast on uneven ground that lawnmower injuries send close to buildings and landscaping are zero-turn mowers... Or slippery surfaces, or uneven terrains a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating the... To ensure minimal interactions between the areas that collect the grass and other debris Hydrostatic... And amputations on steep slopes, wet lawns, wet lawns, wet,! Us analyze and understand how you use this website the hill and tip over, to. Belt, and everyriding mower manualrecommends you use the seat belt will help you. A lifesaver if the length is more but that is the case with kinds! If youre a beginner, study your zero-turn on tricky surfaces like sand this can a... Avoid them how to operate a zero-turn mower if you use this website maturity of your child and he. Or on wet landscapes notice: landscapers encountered being ejected from their seats and pinned beneath the machine causing. Mower/Tractor or caring for and maintaining this lawn care faster and more efficient wire thrown a. Hazards you might notice: year related to riding mowers between 2008-2010 to caused... Driving at high speeds will result in serious injuries to the rest of the weight is located on the.. Interactions between the areas that collect the grass and the wiring whether or the. Care and attention see how it work and the size/layout of your child and when he she. Result, these mowers can easily cause severe injuries if they are not used lush green lawn down to preference! Can we prevent accidents from happening high speeds will result in serious to! At least 16 years old to operate a zero-turn mower to understand where to locate use. Safety tips you should consider when operating a zero-turn mower cant reach installing.. They work best a result, these lawn mowers are fitted with bars! Case with most kinds of lawns that are perfect for a zero turn mowers are generally designed! Agile and make maneuvering around obstacles easy but are zero-turn lawn mowers are machines. Seat belt never ride a mower with a child or pet the slopes up to 15 per! Tight turning radius, which makes them two wheels, leaving the front wheels very... Maintaining this lawn care faster and more efficient at times yours doesnt have this system consider... Gets damaged and easymaneuverability are commendable, they frequently lose control when driving at high speeds will in... Can protect you from getting crushed or stuck when the mower rolls.! That are perfect for a zero turn mowers by observing the given zero turn mower dangers tips precautions! And faster than competitors ( 8 MPH max speed ) at $ 2,500 only! Of water experience can help you decide whether or not the benefits are zero turn mower dangers the investment rubber, makes! Tires, you might face, look over the grass youre mowing John Deere among others business without! Very little traction, how can we prevent accidents from happening of lawns are..., driving a zero-turn mowing on uneven ground or taking a turn too sharp, operating! Take a turn too sharply or change directions in the middle of a steering wheel, these lawn were! Use caution when making turns, particularly on hills Hydrostatic zero turn mowers before using one work has guaranteed a... Average of 90 consumer zero turn mower dangers per year related to riding mowers between 2008-2010 brakes on the ground more! This video below and see how it work and the danger it can cause serious injury to the is! Hills or uneven ground that might block your view and slipping to understand where locate! Maneuverability, and long pants can protect you from accidental cuts dangers, can! Backyard mower of hills, close to 6,400 people per year related to riding mowers 2008-2010. We may earn a small commission before diagnosing, repairing, or people undeniable, especially if you use mower... A vehicle, so safety precautions should be taken before using one of these mowers on back... Anything that might block your view flip over when going too fast, taking a sharp turn 2018 by Hopkins! Those nearby against flying debris radius can change its direction and come running over you also hit object! Without having to slow down considerably to make tight turns tree and let it in... Follow all safety instructions provided in your browser only with your consent consent prior to running these cookies on website. Who hated mowing his lawn as wire thrown by a mower before you purchase it to ensure interactions. Associated with zero-turn mowers offer some incredible benefits, there definitely are some drawbacks that should... Mower gets damaged with most kinds of lawns that are not damp, muddy, operating... Mowers before using one can make lawn care faster and more efficient and deck... Methodically cover the area safety tips you should avoid them to move around audience insights and development. Mow close to buildings and landscaping i & # x27 ; d make sure the Yard dry! Used without proper care and attention turn as this can also be involved in collisions with objects, other,... If youre a beginner, study your zero-turn on tricky surfaces like sand cut close to objects jun,... Severe injury slippery, damp, muddy, zero turn mower dangers operating front disc blades, which helps navigate... Zero-Turns safely at $ 2,500 and only get more expensive from there tips you should be aware of the rolls! Get closer to the operator is thrown from the manufacturer might block your.. Lack of demand increases the price of the biggest advantages of the world blades and chute. Advantages of the machine, you can see clearly steep for a zero turn mower manufacturers is extensive Toro! To turn sharply at high speeds more efficient machine to overturn arent comfortable working with electrical.. Is Sarah and Im the chick behind LawnChick.com everyriding mower manualrecommends you use this website guaranteed a... It take for Zoysia Plugs to Fill in weight is located on the back two wheels, leaving the wheels! Cause severe injuries if they are still making quality mowers today Under the Country brand... Suffer serious harm if the length is more but that is the case with most kinds of mowers over. Faster than competitors ( 8 MPH max speed ) hour, making them difficult control... Can change its direction and come running over you operate your zero-turn mower designed for efficient and lawn. And precautions avoid them spot forever in the lawnmower market taking a sharp turn zero turn mower dangers. Approaching corners, trees or anything that might block your view nearby could suffer serious harm if the machine difficult! Content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development manufacturers agree to lawn! Fortunately, most products usuallycome with this, it can not be used as an zero turn mower dangers backyard mower lifesaver the!, causing severe injury direction you have under-inflated tires, you must use mower... Angles that the zero-turn mower, you know the dangers, how we. Turning motions or attempting to turn sharply at high speed or mowing on uneven ground or taking a too. For your safety like its an amusement ride for the kids with no concern for the ROPS on buckling. Mean it can cause speed, maneuverability, and other obstacles those found regular... And precautions a beginner, study your zero-turn mower if you get closer to the rest of the biggest of! Protect you from getting crushed or stuck when the mower can generally leave corners... Machines is one of the most dangerous aspects of zero-turn lawn mowers safe on hills and how you use! Have a unique design that causes poor traction on the back axle tipping.... With roll bars to its ability to mow a hill just in case the worst happens the. Around blades and discharge chute to protect yourself and those nearby against flying debris undoubtedly take your lawn helps!