Deadly Hazards for ATVers
Start your engines! Summer is here!
The long and warm days of summer bring plenty of opportunity for ATV off-road
recreation. As the popularity of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) has risen
to an all-time high, so too have deaths and injuries. Despite warnings
from manufacturers, federal agencies, and consumer and safety advocates
that ATVs are unsafe on roadways, they’re showing up there more
and more, partly because of relaxed state and local laws.
The result? Nearly two-thirds of fatal ATV crashes occur on public or private roads. Yet, ATVs continue to share the roads with cars and trucks in cities, towns and counties across the country. Before you strap on a helmet and turn the key, you should know the risks associated with these powerful vehicles. Click here to read this month’s “You Should Know” newsletter and to review our stats and safety tips!
As many of you know Mitch has rode and raced motocross for 38 years. Our entire family enjoys participating in outdoor sports and activities. Having said that, it’s just smart to know and appreciate the risks and dangers that come with playing with large toys.
For example, you should know…
- ATVs cause more deaths and injuries than almost any other product under the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s jurisdiction, impacting the lives of more than 100,000 families every year.
- Between 1982 and 2013, there were 13,043 ATV-related fatalities; 3,023 of those were children younger than 16.
- Despite warnings from manufacturers, federal agencies and consumer advocates that ATVs are unsafe on roadways, 35 states (or 69 percent) allow ATVs on certain roads.