At first glance, riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) seems fun and harmless. In fact, ATVs, with their balloon tires, wide stance and cushy seats, look almost cartoonish. But make no mistake – these off-road vehicles which weigh up to 1,000 pounds and are capable of traveling up to 75 miles per hour are for adults only. The vehicles are heavy, and driving them requires size, strength and coordination. They have no seat belts or airbags to protect riders in a crash. Risky behaviors often associated with adolescents including speeding, alcohol use, riding on paved roads, and riding trails in bad weather can add to the hazard. In addition, drivers sometimes have to make split-second decisions that inexperienced drivers may not be equipped to handle. ATV accidents result in broken bones, abrasions, sprained extremities, concussions and other severe brain injuries, spinal-cord injuries and death. According to the latest government figures, the number of children killed or injured while riding an ATV is rising. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that between 1982 and 2001, 38 percent of all the people who died in ATV accidents were under 16. In 2002, children younger than 16 had 37,100 serious injuries, more than any other age group. Given the growing risk to children, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and other organizations recommend that ATV riders be at least 16. Because the incidence of head injuries is twice as high for riders without helmets, the academies also recommend wearing properly fitted helmets. Appropriate helmets include those designed for motorcycle (not bicycle) use, with safety visors or face shields for eye protection. In addition, ATV users should: o Complete ATV safety training. o Wear safety gear such as helmets, eye protection and protective, reflective clothing. o Use flags, reflectors and lights to make vehicles more visible. o Stay off paved roads and streets. o Ride only between sunrise and sunset. o Always ride one person to a vehicle. Passengers impair the driver’s ability to steer and control the ATV. o Never drink and drive. o Have the ATV inspected regularly. Information provided by Marketing Communications at Gillette’s Children’s Specialty Healthcare. For more information about ATV safety, visit www.aap.org .
