Sharry Nielsen, Extension Educator
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension
For over 20 years, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has urged caution when using all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s). Following several years of decline in reported injuries and fatalities related to ATV use, incidents are on the rise once again.
Parents can help stop this upward trend by following and teaching the ATV riders in their families some basic safety techniques.
ATV’s are not toys. They are not appropriate for children under six years of age. For children between 6 and 12 years only the smallest (50 cc) machines are suitable. Not only do young children lack the physical size and strength to operate a motorized vehicle safely, their ability to think through situations, their motor skills and their perception are not fully developed. ATV’s are difficult to ride and require constant attention to avoid accidents.
Between the ages of 12 and 16, youth should learn on and operate only mid-size ATV’ (70 - 90 cc’s). Adult - sized machines should be reserved for teens over 16 who have reached their full physical size.
Arrange for a training course. A hands-on training course offers youth the opportunity to receive experience operating an ATV under the supervision of a certified instructor. Practicing basic maneuvers on a safe terrain gives teens confidence in handling the vehicle under your guidance.
Helmets save lives - insist on them! With your children, select helmets that fit them and their style. It is estimated that helmets could have saved the lives of about 25% of those who died from head injuries in ATV accidents. The risk of head injury with helmet protection is twice as high as when an injured wore a helmet. Don’t let helmets be an option; make them part of using the ATV.
Absolutely No Passengers! ATV’s are designed for one operator. Their unique handling characteristics require focus and maneuverability from the driver. A second person seriously impairs the driver’s ability to shift weight, steer and control the vehicle.
No paved roads. In Nebraska, the only time an ATV can legally be on a paved road is to cross it directly. ATV’s are meant to be used on terrain. They react awkwardly and are difficult to control on pavement.
While all-terrain vehicles have been a work-saver for farmers and ranchers, families need to take the time and effort to teach youth how to operate them safely. The biggest risk factors leading to injuries are driver misuse and inappropriate driving behavior, such as excessive speed and allowing passengers to ride.
If you have an ATV, this week sit down with your children and make up some rules for the use of the ATV. You will also need to decide the consequences (loss of ATV privileges might be a good one) if the rules are not followed. Make an appointment for a rider course from your local ATV dealer. If your children visit homes where there is an ATV, you should also discuss your expectations and how your children should handle situations where there are few or no rules--such as no use of helmets or the allowing of passengers on the ATV.
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For more information, 4-H ATV Safety Project manual, FS4JK
