CPSC Statistics Show ATV Danger, But There Are Ways to Stay Safe
The summer months show a substantial increase in ATV-related deaths and injuries, with fatality rates among the 16 and younger demographic 65% greater in April than they were in March during the years 2004 through 2006, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Adults experienced an even greater increase on average during the same timespan, with an 85% leap in fatalities. Those numbers tend to peak in July.
It’s entirely possible that many injuries and fatalities may have been prevented by proper training methods. Taking a rider training course from someone qualified to teach people how to properly ride an all-terrain vehicle can go a long way toward preserving safety, as can wearing proper safety gear, which includes a helmet.
Adult supervision of young riders should always be in place, with children younger than six never boarding ATVs and kids younger than 16 never boarding an ATV intended for adults. Going against these guidelines accounts for 90% of the injuries that children incur on ATVs.
Abiding by manufacturer-recommended riding conditions will significantly decrease the casualty rates associated with riding ATVs. This includes obeying mandated passenger limits and only piloting on surfaces that would promote safe riding. ATVs have a tendency to overturn on cement, greatly increasing the injury risk.
158 people have already died this year because of an ATV ride that went awry, 28 of them children. Follow safety guidelines to avoid becoming yet another casualty.