Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

I've heard the number of ATV accidents has risen dramatically. With all the new safety features of these toys, I'm wondering why? Is there any kind of recall going on for any of the newer models?

You are quite right that the number of accidents involving all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) has been on the rise for the last 10 years. And many of these accidents are high-energy resulting in some serious injuries (even deaths). What makes these machines so dangerous? Power, speed and uneven or steep terrain. The first ATV models were seven-horse power. Remember, that means the engine has the pulling power of seven horses hooked up together. Today there are 500 horsepower ATVs available on the market. What can be done to prevent these life-changing (and life-threatening) injuries? Awareness of the problem is always the first step. Reports on ATV injuries are helpful in pointing out to all of us how significant ATV-related accidents and injuries can be for all age groups. We need better injury prevention strategies. Drivers who do not have the strength, body mass, and motor control to handle a 500-horsepower machine should not be driving them. Injuries are more likely in younger, smaller individuals, especially children. They are less able to stop a vehicle roll over. Girls have less strength and often have more ligamentous and joint laxity. These two physical features combined together may have a significant impact on their ability to hold up during a rollover or other ATV accident. Emotional maturity and judgment are important too but much more difficult to measure(in adults and children). Older children who might be better able to stop a rollover are also going faster and taking more chances. The recommended age for ATV use is 16 and older. Parents and guardians would be wise to enforce this age restriction. The use of protective helmets that have been sized specifically for each rider must be enforced. Several studies have shown that many people injured in ATV accidents were not wearing a safety helmet. The safest vehicle is only as safe as the owner and operator!

References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.