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We are very sorry for your loss and appreciate your comments. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were first brought onto the consumer market in the 1970s. There are more than seven million of these units currently in use today in the United States.
The more up-to-date models can go up to 75 miles per hour. Each unit can weigh up to 600 pounds. Many accidents involve high speeds and the ATV tipping backward landing on top of the driver. Even with safety helmet, goggles, and other protective gear, severe injury can occur.
In the last 30 years, there have been more than 6,500 deaths linked with ATV use in the United States. Another 136,000 people have been injured by ATV accident-related injuries. Some of these injuries have been serious enough to cause permanent head injury or spinal cord paralysis.
One-third of all ATV accidents involve children under the age of 16. There are reports of children of all ages from infant to 16 and older injured by ATV-use. The greatest number of injuries occurs among boys between the ages of 11 and 15 years.
Helmet use does not prevent face or skull fractures or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). But helmets can reduce the severity of these injuries. More studies are needed to find the best helmet design.
Whether the use of goggles, visor, or face shield make a difference should also be determined. Likewise the benefit of protective clothing, chest protectors, boots, kidney belts, and elbow pads or forearm-wrist guards must be investigated.
Adult supervision, following safety guidelines, and using proper protective equipment is essential for safe and fun ATV use. Many concerned citizens and health care professionals advocate stricter laws prohibiting underage use of ATVs. It has been suggested that helmet use should be required.
Some experts advise that passengers should not be allowed to ride with the driver. The idea of a written and practical driver's exam has also been put forth. Currently, there are no federal laws legislating the safe use of ATVs.
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