The 3.2 kWh (3.56 kWh maximum) sealed Lithium-Ion Battery is protected from moisture and debris. Instant Access. This article looks into the hazards of zero-turn mowers and how you should avoid them. Driving a zero-turn mower high on drugs can lead to a loss of consciousness, resulting in a fatal accident. Your mower may also run into objects or people and cause injuries. While zero-turn mowers work best in irregularly-shaped yards, they are not ideal for mowing slopes. When you get to the end of a row, the best way to turn around is to face uphill and execute the 180-degree turn. You can ride your zero turn at a speed of 15mph, making it a perfect option for tackling larger lawns. Ready to take the next step toward improving your lawn? When operating near roads or other areas with traffic, be sure to use caution and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Driving your zero-turn mower during the day allows you to see clearly and fully control the machine. Zero-turn mowers can flip over when going too fast, taking a turn too sharp, or changing directions too quickly. Zero-turn mowers have the design and power for the average commercial workload. A rollover protection system (ROPS) is a structure that helps protect the operator in case the mower overturns or the mower shows any sign oflawn mower error or issue. Lawn Mower Pull Cord Stuck? If you must operate a lawn mower on a slope, use caution and travel up and down the slope rather than across it. If you are a trying to be more fun to be around, get a zero-turn mower. Wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves can help protect you from cuts and lacerations. Additionally, mostzero-turn mowers use drum brakes on the back axle. 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. Exposing the blades is always a hazard, so going slow is important in wet weather. If you turn the mower left or right, it can slide and overturn. Operate zero-turn mowers during the day so you can see clearly. Additionally, operators should make sure that the mower is properly maintained and that the blades are sharp and balanced. This can be a real issue when you are trying to cut wet grass, as the wheels are likely to slip and skid. Highways are designed to smoothly dip down an angle of at most 15 degrees. When deciding on a new zero-turn mower the most important factor is the size of the area that you will cut. 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. Electric and gas-powered lawn mowers are powerful machines that can make lawn care faster and more efficient. Required fields are marked *. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Be sure to disengage the blades when not using the mower. This site is owned and operated by Yard Floor. For example, you can fall off your seat and get crushed. 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. Just be sure to keep in mind the different disadvantages and dangers of zero turn mowers we have covered before buying. 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. 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. 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%. What are the Dangers of Using a Zero Turn Mower on a Hill? Protective equipment such as gloves, closed-toe shoes, long sleeves, and long pants can protect you from accidental cuts. 7. However, avoid loose clothing as it can get caught in the machines moving parts resulting in injury. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. The V-twin engine produces enough power for larger lawns. To avoid this from happening, always slow down when you approach uneven terrains. They produced many of the zero-turn mowers for other brands including Snapper, Yazoo, Bush Hog, Snapper, and Dixon up until 1995. When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission. 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. Regular Giveaways. While these mowers maneuver quickly, their narrow wheelbase and smaller-sized deck can cause them to overturn easily. Ill talk about them here. Your email address will not be published. One of the most common dangers associated with zero turn mowers is overturning. 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. Based on experience, a mower with wider tires do better in climbing hills. Never drive them too fast. These make zero-turn mowers more prone to tipping over. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers, nearly 6,400 people get injured when using lawnmowers annually. Also, wear earmuffs or earplugs to protect your hearing. 2. To avoid this, always slow down when you are about to turn. The mower can also hit an object when sliding down the hill and tip over, leading to severe injuries. Zero-turn mowers that have a turning radius of zero are a life-saving tool in any garden. But this includes all zero-turn mowers as they did not specify a brand. Zero-turn mowers are a popular choice for lawn care because they are generally safe to use, even for beginners. In addition, avoid using the mower when it is windy, as this can also reduce your visibility, especially if uneven terrains are present. However, this does not mean thatzero turn mowersare completely risk-free. Driving too fast wont allow the mower to stop instantly in case of emergencies. Most deaths were the result of rollovers from operating on too steep of hills, close to embankments, or near bodies of water. if someone accidentally comes in contact with the blades. Once you try this electric zero turn mower from Greenworks youll never look at battery powered tools the same way again. The dangers of zero-turn mowers are undeniable, especially when you try maneuvering them on hilly slopes. Having a lack of demand increases the price of the parts and makes it harder to find them. Some landscapers might be tempted to allow kids or pets to sit on their laps when mowing. Our professionals also recommend not attempting to change directions in the middle of a turn as this can also cause the machine to overturn. Before we get started, it may be helpful to explain what a zero-turn mower actually is. 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. Tall grass can hide objects, holes or bumps. This article looks into the hazards of zero-turn mowers and how you should avoid them. Slow down and use caution when making turns, particularly on hills or uneven terrain. To avoid this, always slow down when you are about to turn. 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. 2.5K views 2 years ago Mowing slopes with a zero turn mower can be dangerous even if you are a experienced operator. Due to the high speed and wide cutting deck of zero-turn mowers, it can be difficult for operators to see obstacles in their path, such as rocks, tree stumps, or other forms of debris. Zero turn mowers can be dangerous if used improperly. Something over 15 degrees will be dangerous, and you should use a standard push mower on extreme slopes for your safety. Always inspect a mower before you purchase it to ensure minimal interactions between the areas that collect the grass and the wiring. This post may include affiliate links. 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. Positioning the blades in the center results in a much more even cut, as both sides of the blade cut the grass at the same time. Read morehere. This means that there will be less chance of moisture interacting and damaging the wiring. 100 Ah Zero-Turn Electric Mower John Deere Z345M 42 in. 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. 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. To identify the hazards you might face, look over the grass youre mowing. 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. Wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves can help protect you from cuts and lacerations. If youve not installed a safety shield on your mower, wear safety glasses to prevent flying debris from getting to the eyes. Here are the alternatives: All of these are available with different wheel or engine-specifieddrives, as well as with gas and electricity. Additionally, when mowing a slope it's important to use extra caution and be aware of the terrain. However, this does not mean that zero turn mowers are completely risk-free. The average zero-turn mower is supposed to last about 1,500 to 2,000 hours according to Turf Magazine. By following these guidelines, operators can reduce the risk of accidents when using a zero-turn mower. An alarming study by Amputee Coalition states that lawnmowers are one of the biggest causes of physical amputations, with more than 800 children being run over every year. Cutting sloped, wet grass on a zero-turn mower increases your chances of losing traction and slipping. By following the Check Price. ZT mowers have distinct advantages, making them a great choice for certain people and properties. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Zero-turn mowers have powerful rotating blades that spin at high speed. Finally, these lawnmowers have the potential to run over victims who have fallen while operating them, which is another risk associated with them. Using a zero-turn mower for residential or commercial applications can make your work easier while keeping you safe. Copyright 2023. If you make a purchase after clicking a link, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. The Average Lifespan of a Zero-Turn Mower. Symptoms of a Bad Lawn Mower Battery: Dont Ignore These Signs. One downside to zero-turn mowers is that, unlike other ride-on mowers, they are not suited for extra attachments aside from a sprayer. The number one rule for using a zero-turn mower safely is not to mow a slope steeper than 15 degrees. Inspect your lawn before mowing. Your email address will not be published. One individual died after being thrown off of a lawn mower and run over with the blades engaged. Once you believe your child is ready to operate a lawn mower, make sure you go over all safety procedures including the dangers of reaching under the deck with the mower blades engaged. Losing control going down a steep slope. When I was a toddler, my family had a lush green lawn. While youre here, check out my guide to maintaining your lawn you may find some more articles there which interest you. 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. How Long Does it Take for Zoysia Plugs to Fill in? 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. This can lead to shorts and other electrical problems. Find alternative cutting methods for lands near bodies of water or on wet landscapes. Zero Turn Riding Mower - Best 42-Inch Model. 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? The grass in the lawn will then regrow well before the next period, whereby you will have to carry out mowing. One of the dangers of zero-turn mowers is they can overturn if you take a turn too sharply or change directions too quickly. Getting in Tight One of the biggest advantages of the zero-turn mower is the ability to cut close to objects. With a regular riding lawn mower, you need to slow down considerably to make tight turns. Recommended Gas Mowers Gas Mowers Ratings Battery. Never drive too fast. Your email address will not be published. With a zero-turn mower, on the other hand, you can get into tighter areas with ease and without having to slow down. Inspect your garden to ensure the surface is flat, stable, and dry. Avoid drivingin any high-risk areas, such as those near water or slopes steeper than 15 degrees. My name is Chris, and I am the founder of Yard Floor. If you are on a too steep slope, you risk your whole mower tipping over. Even lawns well-suited to a standard mower can generally leave behind corners and angles that the zero-turn mower cant reach. They can struggle over rocky and molehill terrain, and they might even suffer damage. Warning Labels: Installing warning labels can be a great way to inform beginners of any parts within the mower that can cause injuries. However, zero-turn mowers are known to create safety hazards if operated without proper caution. Safety Shield: You can install a safety shield around blades and discharge chute to protect yourself and those nearby against flying debris. The leading cause of injury was contact with the blade (33% . Once the zero-turn mower chops up the grass, the grass piles up in a manner whereby there will be better mulching. 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. Zero Turn Mower Costs and Financing. Avoid high-risk surfaces. The operator of the mower and anybody nearby could suffer serious harm if the mower tips over. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Your email address will not be published. Slopes greater than 15 degrees In addition to rollovers, zero-turn mowers can also be involved in collisions with objects, other vehicles, or people. Our professional landscapers encountered being ejected from their seats and pinned beneath the machine, causing severe injury. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. Thats okay. These are employee deaths while operating lawn mowers on the job. As we have discussed, there are some dangers to using a zero-turn mower, but that can be said for most pieces of heavy machinery. Always go by the routine maintenance schedule in your manual and make sure you change and regularly check the level of your oil. Dangerous scenarios. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Not sure what type of mower is best for your lawn? Children or pets can run toward the mower and expose them to the risk of being hit or run over. Riding lawn mowers are designed to make it much easier for you to cover large land areas quickly and with less effort than if you were using a push mower. 4. Below well provide the common dangers associated with these mowers to help you answer this question. Regardless of the size of your lawn, there are certain factors that make zero-turn mowers appropriate. This is why we recommend maintaining and regularly replacing the mowers tires so that you can always rely on them to keep you in place on a hill. Choose a front-steering tractor over a zero-turn-radius rider if you're mowing slopes 10 to 15 degrees or greater. This debris can cause serious injury to the operator or anyone in the surrounding area. If you are dealing with a steeper hill, we recommend mowing it downhill using a traditional push mower. Dangerous Slides when mowing slopes Can zero turn mowers handle rough terrain? 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. This makes them superior to other ride-on mowers, which have a significant turning circle and require you to do three-point turns regularly. The grip is the most important element in maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower. Her goal is to meet you where you are, and help you achieve a yard youll be proud of. 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. Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. Sometimes youll need to disembark your mower to inspect the wheels, remove obstructions or take a rest. It is a great safety measure to prevent injuries orzero-turn lawnmower accidentsif someone accidentally comes in contact with the blades. As a result, the back of the mower carries most of the weight. 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. Additionally, rotating blades can hit debris such as stones and sharp objects and send them flying toward you. Tipping is possibly the most dangerous part of using a zero-turn mower because it could lead you to become pinned underneath the mower. 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The leading cause of injury was contact with the blades zero turn mower dangers is they can overturn if are... As well as with gas and electricity be aware of the parts and makes harder... Run into objects or people and properties turning circle and require you to do three-point turns regularly blades discharge. Does not mean that zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn on. Make a purchase after clicking a link, I may earn a commission at no additional to.