|
As bigger and faster all terrain vehicles (ATV's) have been introduced over the past decade, ATV-related deaths and injuries have increased substantially in every age group. From 1997 to 2001, injury rates increased 23 percent for children age 6 to 12, and 233 percent for children younger than age 6.
ATVs are motorized vehicles with large, low-pressure tires. They are usually designed to carry one rider on an uneven surface and are generally used for recreation and farm, ranch and industrial work. Adult-sized ATVs have engines larger than 90cc. The average adult-sized ATV has an engine between 229cc and 649cc. These vehicles weigh between 400 and 600 pounds and can travel at speeds well above 70 miles per hour. Youth-sized ATVs come in various designs. Manufacturer's guidelines suggest that children under the age of 6 should operate ATVs with engines smaller than 90cc, and children age 6 to 12 operate ATVs with engines between 70cc and 90cc.
Prevention Effectiveness
Wearing a helmet while operating an ATV reduces the risk of fatal head injury by 42 percent, and the risk of non-fatal head injury by 64 percent. Helmets, however, cannot protect from other common causes of ATV-related injuries such as spinal cord, thoracic and abdominal injuries and asphyxiation. Prevention Tips -
Children under age 6 should never ride ATVs. -
No child under age 16 should operate an adult-sized ATV under any circumstances. If a child operates a youth-sized ATV, it should be according to the manufacturer's instructions. -
Parents should consider a child's physical, mental and emotional maturity when deciding if the child is ready to operate a youth-sized ATV. -
Children should never operate an AYV on public or paved roads. -
Personal protective equipment for ATV operators should include a US Department of Transportation-approved helmet with face protection, goggles (if the helmet does not have face protection), a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, long pants, non-skid boots and gloves. -
Never carry passengers on ATVs. -
Children and their parents or guardian should enroll in and successfully complete an approved ATV safety course. ATV Laws
In Memphis and Shelby County, it is against the law to drive an ATV on public streets or paved roads.
For more information, please call Safe Kids Mid-South, headquartered at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, at (901) 287-6730.
|
