All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are a fun way to get around. For thousands of people, riding the back roads and trails is a fantastic way to spend some time together. But, without proper safety precautions, a fun ride can soon become a nightmare. In this article, we will be discussing ATV accidents. We will provide you with helpful information, safety tips, and statistics. Hopefully these things will work together to keep you safer on the road. If you want to stay safe on the trail, read on.
What Do Stats Say About ATV Accidents?
Statistics show us that, overwhelmingly, ATVs can be truly dangerous. Hundreds of deaths occur every year, and thousands are hospitalized. More than likely, the number of accidents each year is quite a bit higher than those who die or go to a hospital due to injury. Minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and bruises are not normally reported. For the last two decades or so, injuries and accidents involving ATVs has been steadily on the rise. Many blame this rise on the increasing power that ATV manufacturers place in the engines and motors of their vehicles. Young white males (under the age of 30) are most at risk for such accidents. Risk of injury increases for those riding in rural areas. However, for older or younger riders the risk of more serious injury is higher.
ATV Safety
ATV safety can go a long way in preventing these accidents. Most of these safety tips are very basic, but they can save lives. Always be sure to ride the proper safety equipment when operating ATVs. This includes the proper clothing, pads, gloves, a helmet, and safety goggles. Do not take your ATV out on very steep terrain. You should also avoid riding it on concrete. Only one rider/operator should be on an ATV at a time. Children should never operate these vehicles, especially not if they are adult sized. Chance of injury for children operating adult vehicles increases by around 200%. Everyone who will operate any of these vehicles should be properly trained. Lastly, never operate an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Risks for Younger Riders
There is a real risk for younger riders. Most often, younger riders may be taken on as passengers, or allowed to operate these vehicles on their own. Oversized vehicles may be more likely to flip or go out of control. Smaller ATVs are available for children ages 6 and up. Even then, children should be monitored to be sure that they are not riding ATVs on terrain that is too steep and that they are not traveling too fast. No child under the age of 16 should operate an adult sized vehicle. No one under the age of 6 should ever operate any ATVs. Although they can watch the fun, tell them to wait. Younger children may lack judgment and skills needed to safely operate these vehicles, even the smallest of them.
What You Can Do
Be sure to always follow all safety precautions, as outlined above, when operating an ATV. If you see someone who is not following these precautions, let them know, or report them to the authorities. Although that might seem strange (or even rude) it could save them from serious injury or worse. Even if you feel as if you could operate an ATV without any formal training, opt for in, anyway. You may just learn something during your course. Always be sure to follow any local ordinances, policies, or laws, as well, when riding ATVs.
What Others Are Doing
Government officials and agencies are striving to keep ATV riders safe. This is why many areas do not allow for ATVs to be rode on public roads or paved roads. Depending upon what state you live in, regulations may vary. You can find plenty of information and a copy of your state’s policies by going online, or asking your local law enforcement agency. Some medical professionals (like orthopedic surgeons) are also spreading the word about ATV safety due to increased injuries. Sadly, most of these professionals still report that it is normally only after the second injury that behaviors in patients change.
Learning More
If you want to learn more about ATV safety in your area, consult local government officials. Chances are training courses and more are already offered in your town or city. Feel free to ask medical professionals about their advice in using ATVs. Or, ask your local law enforcement agency about what regulations you should be following. Be sure to always read all operating guides and manuals for each vehicle that you own, as they may each have differing safety precautions. As always, the internet serves as a huge resource that can provide you with relevant information about your vehicles and area.