An ATV is not a Toy
An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a powerful, motorized vehicle weighing up to 600 lbs. and reaching speeds of more than 60 mph. Even the best drivers often lose control and a collision or a vehicle rollover can happen quickly.
Who is at risk?
The highest risk age group is males under the age of 16. Often they are riding without protective equipment and with more than one person on the ATV. Risk-taking while riding is all too common. Young people represent nearly 40% of all ATV-related injuries and deaths.
What can happen?
The most common injuries associated with ATV crashes are to the head, face and spine – skull fractures, facial fractures, brain injuries, coma, paralysis and spinal cord injuries. Some have short-term disability; some have a lifetime of disability, while too many actually die.
Why are young people injured so often?
• No helmet use.
• Carrying one or more passengers.
• Lack of mature judgment.
• Lack of adequate strength and coordination.
• ATV too big for their size/age.
Safety Tips for all ATV Riders
1. Do not carry passengers. ATVs are designed for one person.
2. Wear a helmet with eye protection.
3. Wear non-skid, closed toe shoes.
4. Wear long pants and a long-sleeve shirt.
5. Do not ride on public roads or at night.
6. Never use a 3-wheeler. They are unsafe and no longer manufactured.
7. Attend an ATV driver’s safety course.
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