Eagle Harbor Insurance Blog: ATVs

Eagle Harbor Insurance Blog: ATVs

This is very important information concerning kids and driving atvs. It's really common sense I think, but it seem alot of us miss details that can be so vital to the safety and well being of our children.

A new study suggests that prohibiting ATV passengers and implementing helmet use may prevent the severity of head and neck related injuries in children who are victims of ATV accidents
Since the 1990s, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) related deaths and injuries have steadily increased. Surrounding this, the safety of ATVs has been questioned, especially as it is related to children. A new study suggests that prohibiting ATV passengers and implementing helmet use may prevent the severity of head and neck related injuries in children who are victims of ATV accidents.
ATVs have been popular recreational vehicles since their inception during the 1970s. Since that time, much concern has arisen over their safety and associated risks to operators, especially children. Similarly, the sale of ATVs has markedly risen in recent years. Between 1998 and 2003, the cumulative increase reached 150 percent, with a total of 800,000 vehicles purchased in 2003. In 2004, there were 136,100 total injuries with 44,700 of those less than 16 years of age; this total represents roughly a 14 percent increase over 2003. From 1998 to 2004, there was a 101 percent increase in adult and pediatric injuries related to ATVs and with an almost 80 percent increase in the number of injuries for children under age 16. Children under 16 make up roughly 14 percent of all ATV riders, but they suffered 33 percent of all injuries and accounted for 31 percent of total fatalities between 1982 and 2004.




ConclusionsATV-related morbidity and mortality in children remain significant public health issues that should be amenable to primary prevention. A multi-faceted approach to addressing the issue will be necessary to reduce these preventable injuries and deaths. This may involve state and federal government agencies, health providers, and ATV manufacturers. Responsibility ultimately belongs to those who choose to operate ATVs or permit their usage. Educating adults, parents, and children represents a necessary first step in promoting this responsibility.

This all concerns me as I operate the website off road atvs. We all should be concerned with the welfare of our children. Atvs are fun and exciting to operate, but it should go without saying that safety is of utmost importance.