3. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Just because zero-turn mowers appear to be less dangerous than larger machinery like tractors, skid steers, and excavators it doesnt mean they are. For the ROPS to work effectively, you must use the seat belt. 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. The dangers of zero turn mowers are overturning, sliding on slopes, difficulty controlling at high speeds, running over objects, and accidental cuts. All Rights Reserved | Home | About, We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Do not forget to wear your seat belt at any cost while driving the zero turn mower. Objects such as wire thrown by a mower blade can be very dangerous. Possible Dangers As if all that weren't enough, zero turn mowers can actually pose a safety threat to the operator. Getting in Tight One of the biggest advantages of the zero-turn mower is the ability to cut close to objects. Traction issues are common when turning the mower left or right on steep hills. But this includes all zero-turn mowers as they did not specify a brand. Thanks for the replies . Zero turn mowers account for many serious injuries resulting from lawn mowing. Twitchy, jerky turning motions or attempting to turn sharply at high speeds will result in rollovers. 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%. Most of the weight is located on the back two wheels, leaving the front wheels with very little traction. Best for Beginners. Fuel hazards are one of the leading causes of fire in gas-powered lawn mowers. Unfortunately, zero turn mowers also have some disadvantages. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. EGO Z6 - 42 Zero Turn Mower - besthomegear.com. Sometimes youll need to disembark your mower to inspect the wheels, remove obstructions or take a rest. Some parents may feel their child is not ready to mow at these recommended ages. Rollover Protection System (ROPS): Most zero turn mowers come with a ROPS from the manufacturer. Overturning is a common danger of zero turn mowers. Zero-turn mowers can weigh more than 1,700 pounds, and if the machine doesn't have a rollover-protection system (ROPS) and . These types of accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities and may occur for a variety of reasons, including failure to see obstacles. Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and every. 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. If you already own a zero-turn-radius riding mower, be sure to mow slowly on hills. As a result, the back of the mower carries most of the weight. Finally, take time to know your mower and all its features. Using a zero-turn mower for residential or commercial applications can make your work easier while keeping you safe. 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. Judging by the above statistics, zero-turn mowers pose the greatest danger compared to all other types of lawnmowers. Slopes greater than 15 degrees Should I Bag My Grass Clippings If I Have Weeds? As much as possible, choose from ride-on mowers with a rollover protection system. Zero-turn mowers have powerful rotating blades that spin at high speed. A sit down zero turn is usually better than a rider but once they slide they keep sliding, rear first. Here's How to Fix It. 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. We hope this has helped you feel just that little bit safer; happy mowing! It is a great safety measure to prevent injuries orzero-turn lawnmower accidentsif someone accidentally comes in contact with the blades. Before we get started, it may be helpful to explain what a zero-turn mower actually is. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike. Zero turn mowers usually have larger motors too so they tend to produce more pollutants. And, if possible, clear out any obstacles from the ground and make room for the mower. For most homeowners, the sweet spot between features and price will be closer to $2,500 to $3,000. Zero-turn lawn mowers are convenient machines that will undoubtedly take your lawn maintenance to a whole new level! Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. One of the most dangerous aspects of zero-turn lawn mowers is their speed. If you live in an area with a lot of wet weather, then a zero-turn mower is probably not the choice for you. Based on experience, a mower with wider tires do better in climbing hills. How steep is too steep for a zero turn mower? Wet grass can cause the wheels to slip and make it difficult to control the machine or worse make yourriding mower stop from operating. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children should be at least 12 years old to operate a walk-behind push mower. To learn more visit the following pages:Advertising Policy |Privacy Policy, Get My FREE Cheat-Sheet and Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care. If a person or pet comes outside the house, turn off the engine. The grip is the most important element in maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower. Fab Deck Zero-Turn Mower with MyRide Ariens IKON XD 52 inch 23 HP (Kawasaki) Mower Are zero-turn mowers dangerous? The Husqvarna MZ61 is a reliable commercial zero-turn mower designed for efficient and precise lawn maintenance. Also, wear earmuffs or earplugs to protect your hearing. Take a look below at the 10 main dangers when using a zero turn mower on hills. Extra caution and experience can help you ride these zero-turns safely. It can also remind them to remain seated while operating the mower. If you are involved in an accident while using a zero-turn mower, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. If you are going to purchase this machine for your home and yard, make sure you are looking for one that will tackle your specific jobs. One of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers is the potential for flying debris. . It is therefore easier to maneuver than other types of lawn mowers because it can revolve around its own axis without changing its forward direction. A zero turn mower is a type of lawnmower that can make a complete rotation on the spot. Again, a zero turn mowers weight distribution can mean its dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. This debris can cause serious injury to the operator or anyone in the surrounding area. The fins on it are designed for this purpose, yet when you clean them, they can become clogged with dirt. Avoid drivingin any high-risk areas, such as those near water or slopes steeper than 15 degrees. This will prevent the mower from tipping over and help you regain control. They also reported there was an average of 90 consumer deaths per year related to riding mowers between 2008-2010. It is thereforeeasier to maneuver than other types of lawn mowers because it can revolve around its own axis without changing its forward direction. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. As a result, it's important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a zero-turn mower. Its very easy to remember. Our professionals also recommend not attempting to change directions in the middle of a turn as this can also cause the machine to overturn. You can reverse-drive some lawn mowers. So, this is sure that zero-turn mowers are dangerous if used carelessly. Required fields are marked *. When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission. Tell Lawn Advisors in the comments box below. The New Z370R Electric ZTrak Mower Our first Zero-Turn Electric mower is now available for preorder. Additionally, operators should make sure that the mower is properly maintained and that the blades are sharp and balanced. We all know that mowing wet grass is not a good idea with any lawn mower. The V-twin engine produces enough power for larger lawns. To ensure your safety while riding one of these mowers, its a good idea to be aware of their dangers. Its also advisable to ensure no one is around because you can lose control of the mower and run into them. While zero-turn mowers offer some incredible benefits, there definitely are some drawbacks that you should be aware of prior to making a purchase. Its easy to get over-excited with a fun machine like the zero-turn mower, but its important to take it slow. Zero turn mowers can be dangerous if used improperly. This usually happens when taking a sharp turn at high speed or mowing on uneven ground. Friendly Community. As elaborated in this guide, any risks associated with using zero-turn mowers could be minimized when you have all the necessary safety measures in place. Zero Turn Riding Mower - Best 42-Inch Model. To keep safe from the dangers of zero-turn mowers, our seasoned gardeners, landscapers, and greenskeepers created a list of safety tips for you to follow. The operator of the mower and anybody nearby could suffer serious harm if the mower tips over. This means that there will be less chance of moisture interacting and damaging the wiring. Its important to be aware of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers and take steps to mitigate the risks when using them. 1984-1995 - The market exploded and more than 50 manufacturers entered the zero-turn mower market. Losing control going down a steep slope. With a zero-turn mower, on the other hand, you can get into tighter areas with ease and without having to slow down. However, you should keep in mind that you are definitely compromising on a few things too. Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and everyriding mower manualrecommends you use it every time you operate the machine. Discussion . Exposing the blades is always a hazard, so going slow is important in wet weather. The wheels are usually larger than those found on regular walk-behind and ride-on lawnmowers. The seat belt will help keep you in the seat if the machine overturns or hits an uneven spot. 2.5K views 2 years ago Mowing slopes with a zero turn mower can be dangerous even if you are a experienced operator. 13. You riska child or even an adult running straight at or behind the mower, putting them in danger of zero turn mower accidents. If youve not installed a safety shield on your mower, wear safety glasses to prevent flying debris from getting to the eyes. In addition, zero-turn lawn mowers are often equipped with powerful blades that can spin at high speeds. Husqvarna YTA24V48 24V FastTractor Mower, with Twin 48 7. 4. When it comes to zero-turn mowers on hills that you'd find in most yards, they work very well. 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. Many of these employees worked for professional landscape companies or as grounds care staff for commercial or governmental facilities. Hi, my name is Sarah and Im the chick behind LawnChick.com. Typically, these mowers can be dangerous when tackling slopes above 15 degrees. Avoid high-risk surfaces. Unlike traditional lawn tractors, which have a low center of gravity and a stable design, zero-turn mowers have a high center of gravity and a more narrow wheelbase. 8 Easy Steps in 2022. With the right machine, you can easily cut large lawns in a fraction of the time it would take with a standard mower. The seat belt will help keep you in the seat if the machine overturns or hits an uneven spot. - Of course, as most zero turn mowers are gas-powered, there is concern about their emissions. Fungal diseases can also develop on a lawn that has been cut after a rainstorm through the grass clippings, which form bigger clumps under such conditions. 03:40 - Change the Fuel Filter. However, consumers claim that a riding mower performs well even on hills with an angle of up to 15 degrees. If you must use it on a sloped ground, we recommend you mow up and down and not run it across. The comfort of mowing efficiently without manually pushing around a heavy machine is also an advantage that you shouldnt underestimate. Most hand trimmers and lawn trimmers can be used safely on any terrain. 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. Driving a zero-turn mower high on drugs can lead to a loss of consciousness, resulting in a fatal accident. Are Zero Turn Mowers Dangerous? The most obvious is that the steering allows you to make zero-radius turns. Ariens 915213 Zero Turn Mower, with 19 HP, 42 Inches Cutting Wedge 9. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Part of this is due to their design and functionality. 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. One of the most common dangers associated with zero turn mowers is overturning. Nearly all these preventable fatalities and injuries share themes of predictable risks that result in loss of stability or contact with blades. Boise, ID 83702 US, If you are in the market for a zero-turn mower, youre in luck! If you lose control of your mower, it can run into people and pets, cutting them with powerful blades. Driving too fast wont allow the mower to stop instantly in case of emergencies. If you are dealing with a steeper hill, we recommend mowing it downhill using a traditional push mower. Zero-turn lawn mowers were invented in 1956 by Max Swisher, a man who hated mowing his lawn. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. Watch for objects that could be picked up and thrown by the mower blades, as well as hidden dangers. This can happen if you take a sharp turn at too high of a speed, or if you hit an unexpected object while mowing. . Operator fatigue occurs when the operator has been mowing for a long period of time and is not paying attention to their surroundings. Since your gas-powered zero turn mower can emit a noise level above 85 decibels, its advisable to wear hearing protection. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? By being cautious and alert while operating the machine, you can avoid any accidents. Dangerous Slides when mowing slopes A z-turn mower has smaller front wheels than rear wheels. Many manufacturers agree to a retrofit without extra charges. For that, Lawn Advisors provided you with the common dangers of zero turn mowers, along with the precautions you should take to avoid these risks. (what I use instead). These types of mowers do not handle slopes well. Once the zero-turn mower chops up the grass, the grass piles up in a manner whereby there will be better mulching. Here are the alternatives: All of these are available with different wheel or engine-specifieddrives, as well as with gas and electricity. These clippings mat down, restricting healthy airflow. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Is your soil quite rocky? This can help you clear obstacles such as rocks, tree stems, and other debris. These mowers are capable of reaching high speeds, and they can make sudden turns that can easily throw off an inexperienced operator. Can zero turn mowers handle rough terrain? An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Your mower engine needs air circulation to prevent overheating. Finally, these lawnmowers have the potential to run over victims who have fallen while operating them, which is another risk associated with them. While its possible to drive your zero turn mower at up to 15 mph, that speed can be too high on rugged or steep terrain. 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. I cant imagine the horror as his child screamed in pain. This is the standard steepest angle for highways. The efficiency of these machines is one of their best features. 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. Choose a front-steering tractor over a zero-turn-radius rider if you're mowing slopes 10 to 15 degrees or greater. 2. So, when driving up or down a slope, even a slight movement to the left or right causes the machine to slide out of the operators control. 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. 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. Craftsman Z560 V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Mower - Best for the Money. 8 Easy Steps to Change Oil in a Push Mower, Inspect, Sharpen and Replace Lawn Mower Blades. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Don protective equipment while riding. Ultima ZT1-50 Zero-Turn Riding Mower. This rule sounds like 20-15-10. The Average Lifespan of a Zero-Turn Mower. 5. 2. Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | About Us | Contact Us, 5110 28th Street #1056, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-805-9640 [emailprotected]Copyright 2023 Powered Outdoors, According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Remove sticks, rocks, toys, and other obstructions before mowing, Remove people and pets from the mowing area, Ensure the ROPS bar is in an upright position, Make sure blades are not damaged and cracked allowing for a piece of the blade to break off and eject from the mower deck. Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. If you turn one wheel when riding at 15mph, the machine can lose traction, slide, and tip over. The slopes up to 15 degrees are the only ones where they work best. (A 10-degree slope rises roughly 20 inches over every 10 feet.) Your email address will not be published. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. 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. Take advantage of 180-degree maneuverability and confidently earn your stripes. I understand the importance of learning to operate mowers safely. Due to the price of zero turn mowers, there isnt a huge demand for the parts. 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. Most require hospitalization because of lacerations, fractures, and amputations. It is a great safety measure to prevent injuries or. Why We Like It. Copyright 2023. The individual levers turn the mower left, right, and 180 degrees. What makes the zero-turn mowers dangerous? A child must be able to follow rules, and safety procedures and be able to physically operate the mower. The seat belt should prevent you from falling off after running into objects or taking a sharp turn. This can cause you to crash the mower and possibly injure yourself. Before you purchase your next mower, make sure it has these important safety options installed on your zero-turn mower. The ages provided are a guideline. The highest ticket ZTRs are geared toward . 22 HP Gas Dual Hydrostatic Husqvarna Z254F Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower Toro 75754 Timecutter 54 in. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. When zero-turn mowers overturn, they can cause severe injuries to the users and those nearby. With a regular riding lawn mower, you need to slow down considerably to make tight turns. Below well provide the common dangers associated with these mowers to help you answer this question. There were other deaths that resulted from not having safety protocols. If the mower strikes an object, stop, turn the mower off, and inspect the mower. Losing Control 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. Driving too fast is dangerous as its difficult to control the mower. The mower features a wide 61-inch cutting deck, which allows . It will prevent injuries if someone accidentally comes into contact with theblades that are still in a cutting rotation. The slower you go, the less likely you are to lose traction and slide. The two main dangers of using a zero-turn mower on hills are: 1. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. While youre here, check out my guide to maintaining your lawn you may find some more articles there which interest you. Ejection can occur if the operator is thrown from the mower due to sudden stops, collisions, or rollovers. Rain, fog, and wind can reduce visibility during the day. The organization recommends children be at least 16 years old to operate a riding mower. There are safety measures to take that will greatly decrease your risk of injury while operating a zero-turn. 03:18 - Inspect the Fuel Filter. Your mower may also run into objects or people and cause injuries. This article looks into the hazards of zero-turn mowers and how you should avoid them. How Hard is this Wood. These machines are designed to turn on a dime and navigate tight spaces with ease, making them ideal for cutting grass and trimming around obstacles. Weigh the benefits against the risks, so you can make an informed decision about whether a zero-turn mower is right for your lawn care needs. Please watch: "Warning!! if someone accidentally comes in contact with the blades. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. These make zero-turn mowers more prone to tipping over. However, if the operator isnt keenon checkingbehind them, especially if there are children, they may run over them, causing serious injury or even death to anyone underneath the machine at the time. Here are a few tips that might help: 1. Again, a zero turn mower's weight distribution can mean it's dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. Typically $5,360 or so at Home Depot lately, our last mention of a similar model was back . Electric and gas-powered lawn mowers are powerful machines that can make lawn care faster and more efficient. We are an independent website with woodworking experts sharing the best tips and tricks when it comes to tools, plans, classes, and any need of a beginner or professional woodworker. By following the manufacturers instructions, making sure you wear protective gear, and taking caution when operating a zero-turn mower, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. It is usually caused by coming into contact with thesharpened mower bladesor being hit by flying debris. In addition, it increases your chance of being ejected from the seat. He once tied a gas push mower to a tree and let it run in increasingly smaller circles until it reached the center. Due to its precision turning, it will negotiate these tight spots with ease, within reason. We have a review of all the. Avoid driving on high-risk areas such asretaining walls, steeper than 15-degree slopes, and areas close to water. However, these mowers can be dangerous if not handled properly. Mowing side to side, starting at the bottom, is the ideal way to tackle a hill. Additionally, rotating blades can hit debris such as stones and sharp objects and send them flying toward you. Plus, the mower has zero operating emissions. Warning Labels: Installing warning labels can be a great way to inform beginners of any parts within the mower that can cause injuries. When mowing at high speeds, the mower blades can pick up rocks, sticks, and other debris and launch them into the air. To identify the hazards you might face, look over the grass youre mowing. Read morehere. Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free!