| NEWS STORIES Below are recent news stories about ATV safety. If you have seen any news stories or developments you think we should post, please contact us. [11.18.14] Nearly a decade ago, doctors in Nova Scotia thought they had found a way to protect children from being injured or killed on all-terrain vehicles. The Canadian province banned children younger than 14 from operating any kind of ATV almost everywhere. The following year, the number of children hospitalized with injuries from ATV riding plummeted by half. But today, the celebrating is over. [ read more ] [11.17.14] OCEANO DUNES, CALIF. – The little girl perches her all-terrain vehicle at the top of a towering dune and prepares to plunge into one of the wildest places to go off-roading in America. She is 4 years old. Two dozen ATVs zoom past her. The girl, named Nina, has never driven an ATV until today. The model she’s riding was designed for drivers 12 and older. Her only training took place an hour earlier, when a rental company worker spent about five minutes explaining how the brakes and throttle work. [ read more ] [11.16.14] For years, federal regulators, doctors and the all-terrain vehicle industry have agreed: Children should not ride ATVs designed for adults. But in most states, the practice is legal. In Minnesota, lawmakers even dropped the age limit from 16 to 12 for driving adult ATVs, with a nod to safety: They require children to take a training class. [ read more ] [11.15.14] As ridership has grown nationwide, hundreds of children have been killed riding off-road vehicles built for adults. Ryan Anderson is not yet 2, but he is already a veteran of the Luck Area ATV Club. As his family prepares for its weekly trail ride through the woods of western Wisconsin, Ryan is strapped in to the Polaris Ranger, his helmet secured to the front seat with a blue bungee cord. His father explains why: Ryan’s neck is too weak to support the helmet, so the cord is also needed to keep him safe. [ read more ] [10.28.14] What’s the difference between a 6-year-old in Tennessee and a 17-year-old in West Virginia? Only one of them can legally drive an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). And it’s the 6-year-old. While ATVs can be functional and fun, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urges parents to remember that children who are not licensed to drive a car should not be allowed to operate off-road vehicles. [ read more ] [10.08.14] Matt Gibbens has been riding all-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, for a long time, but he’s never taken a safety course. “I know there's a lot of them out there but I've just grown up on them,” Gibbens said. Gibbens grew up on a farm and said he’s used ATVs for both work and play. But despite his experience with the machine, he’s still dressed from head to toe in protective gear, including a helmet, goggles, and chest protector. [ read more ] [09.26.14] A CORONER has questioned whether children should be allowed to ride quad bikes after a coronial inquest into nine deaths. The deaths, which occurred between March 2012 and January this year, all involved fatal accidents on quad bikes. Queensland Deputy Coroner John Lock said the crashes involved children driving bikes too big for them to control, people driving while drunk and others not wearing helmets. [ read more ] [08.20.14] FARM safety experts have called for an immediate import ban on so-called "junior" quad-bikes. Speakers at a farm safety conference in Melbourne last week said the bikes were readily available from $300 to $530, yet 35 children had been killed while riding them since 2001. Associate Professor Tony Lower from the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety said an import ban needed to be coupled with stopping children aged 16 or under using quad-bikes. [ read more ] [08.06.14] As Albertans gear up for the August long weekend, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is reminding all residents, and particularly parents of children less than 16 years of age, to be mindful of the significant risks associated with the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). “We know that children less than 16 years of age have not yet developed to the point of having the strength, skills or judgment needed to operate an ATV, and this includes ATVs marketed as ‘child-sized,’ ” says Dr. Albert de Villiers, Medical Officer of Health for Alberta Health Services’ North Zone. [ read more ] [08.06.14] At least eight Iowa children have died in accidents involving all-terrain vehicles or off-highway vehicles this year, a statistic that should be a wake-up call for parents to ensure their children are safely and legally using the vehicles, experts say. "Kids depend on us to look out for them, and when something happens, as a parent, it just breaks your heart," said David Downing, off-highway vehicle programs manager for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. [ read more ] [07.24.14] KINGWOOD – The death of a 9-year-old North Jersey boy in an all-terrain vehicle accident this week highlights the potential hazards of riding off-road vehicles, particularly for younger drivers. Gavin Martuccio of Kingwood was riding a Suzuki 250cc ATV, a vehicle designed for older riders, when he lost control, was ejected and struck a piece of farm equipment near his Hunterdon County home, state police Trooper Alina Spies said [ read more ] [07.16.14] A tragic accident involving an 11 year-old girl from Royse City, Texas, is a reminder about the dangers of allowing children to ride on all-terrain vehicles (ATV). On July 5th, the child was riding with friends on an ATV when it overturned and fell on top of her. While a stranger worked furiously to free her, the ATV burst into flames. She was finally pulled free but suffered second, third and fourth degree burns on her body. Currently, she’s in critical condition in a hospital burn unit. [ read more ] [07.14.14] MONDAY, July 14, 2020 (HealthDay News) -- A new study from Iowa found that three-quarters of teens in that state have driven an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), and more than half of them have been in accidents while riding one. The researchers focused on almost 5,000 kids between the ages of 11 and 16, and found most of these young ATV riders had engaged in risky behaviors such as riding with passengers, tooling around on public roads and neglecting to wear a helmet. [ read more ] [06.17.14] ABILENE, Texas - Texas ranks second in the nation in child fatalities from ATV accidents, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. That’s a frightening thought after a child was thrown from an ATV in Tuscola recently. As we found out from the experts this isn't just a bad idea, it's dangerous and illegal. [ read more ] [06.12.14] Primary Children’s Hospital cares for sick and injured children, but we also strive to keep kids safe and out of the hospital. Over the past few years, we have seen the number of injuries, specifically traumatic brain injuries from ATV crashes, on the rise. The Intermountain West has the fourth - highest traumatic brain injury hospitalization rate in the country for children ages five to 14. [05.22.14] Washington, DC (May 22, 2020) –Tragically, there are numerous all-terrain vehicle (ATV) deaths and injuries during the Memorial Day holiday. According to the most recent data from CPSC, during the Memorial Day weekend in 2013, there were at least 14 deaths and an estimated 2,850 injuries serious enough to require emergency room treatment associated with ATV usage. Four of the 14 fatalities during that weekend involved children younger than 16. Reports for the four Memorial Day holiday weekends before 2013, from 2009 to 2012, show a total of more than 73 ATV-related fatalities [ read more ] [05.19.14] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their all-terrain vehicle (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [04.24.14] Washington, DC (April 24, 2020) – According to data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, child deaths decreased slightly in 2012, while serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles to ATV riders of all ages appear to have increased slightly in 2012. Tragically, at least 54 children lost their lives and 26,500 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. “ATV deaths and serious injuries impact the lives of over 100,000 families every year. [ read more ] [04.24.14] In most states (and countries) you can't legally get a driver's license until you're at least 16 or 17 years old, for reasons that boil down to “If you're younger than that, you probably lack the physical and intellectual maturity to safely operate an automobile.” Each state has slightly different licensing requirements, but all of them have minimum legal ages in the teens. That's not the case with ATVs (all-terrain vehicles). Each state chooses whether or not to set any requirements, and there's no single rule which all 50 U.S. states have in common. [ read more ] [04.11.14] For a disabled kid found abandoned on a street corner in China at age 4, Guo Biao was doing pretty well by last fall. He was living with Dwayne and Sherri Bowman on their apple and cherry farm near Zillah, Wash. Finally. A family. And also a new name: Zeke Bowman. With only a second-grade education, the teen from China was welcomed by the devout Christian family. The Bowmans helped Zeke learn English. For the first time he got a hearing aid for his deformed ear [ read more ] [03.17.14] A leading consumer group is warning that the increasing use of all-terrain vehicles on the nation’s roads poses a “growing public health crisis” and is calling for immediate action by U.S., state and local officials. “ATVs are not designed to be on roads,” said Rachel Weintraub, the Consumer Federation of America’s legislative director and the co-author of a new report on the issue. “Any weakening of that message puts consumers at risk.” [ read more ] [03.10.14] Last Mother’s Day, Jaret Graham, 14, climbed on the back of an all-terrain vehicle driven by his 12-year-old cousin. As they sped down a paved stretch of country road in west Texas, the 12-year-old lost control, went into a ditch and fell off the vehicle, injuring his leg. Jaret was thrown off and hit his head on a cattle guard, a barrier made from steel pipes. He died instantly. [ read more ] [03.02.14] People under the age of 16 should be banned from riding quad bikes and helmets should be compulsory for all riders, according to a report funded by WorkCover and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. The safety study, due out in April, will also recommend that training courses should be provided by manufacturers. [ read more ] [12.26.13] IIHS study finds ATV crash deaths up on public roads. Most such deaths now occur on paved roads, study finds. Vehicles aren't designed for use on such roads. Many also drive drunk, without helmets. [ read more ] [11.17.13] All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are widely used in Canada for recreation, transportation and occupations such as farming. As motorized vehicles, they can be especially dangerous when used by children and young adolescents who lack the knowledge, physical size, strength, and cognitive and motor skills to operate them safely. [11.11.13] In south Louisiana, where ATVs are as much a part of daily life as seafood, fishing and festivals, leaders may be changing the tide on ATV safety attitudes. The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office and Houma Police Department both announced last week that they will enforce a zero-tolerance policy on laws affecting ATV riders. [ read more ] [11.08.13] In 1988, after the federal government declared all-terrain vehicles an “imminent hazard,” manufacturers agreed to stop selling popular three-wheel models. That paved the way for the growth in sales of four-wheel models and, later, side-by-side models like the Polaris that landed on 14-year-old John Farmer's head in Houma last Sunday, killing him. [ read more ] [11.06.13] A NEW Zealand coroner says he's convinced rollover protection on ATVs will prevent most deaths and serious injuries. Brandt Shortland, a coroner for the Whangarei region, north of Auckland, has handed down his findings on five farm-based quad bike deaths that happened within six weeks of each other. [ read more ] [09.16.13] Eight years ago on a hot afternoon in late August, Carrie Nolan’s worst nightmare came true. Her sons Austin, 9, and Justin, 7, had jumped on the family’s four-wheel all-terrain vehicle to ride out in search of their dad who was finishing up work in a nearby field. It wasn’t the first time they had ridden without supervision, something that had always made mom uncomfortable. [ read more ] [09.16.13] DOCTORS and medical experts are calling for children to be banned from riding quad bikes because they account for one in three hospital visits after accidents. The all-terrain vehicles used on farms and for fun are killing 18 Australians a year and a new study shows children aged under 14 are the age group most likely to end up injured and in hospital. [ read more ] [06.30.13] ATV injuries among children has decreased but remains high in general (dailyRx News) Riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) has become more popular in the past three decades. Among children, however, injury rates remain high. [ read more ] [05.21.13] UPDATE: ATV manufacturers have come out in support of today's calls by health officials to ban kids from riding adult machines. The Federal Chamber of Automative Industries, which represents ATV manufacturers, tonight said it supported the move by a host of bodies to keep kids off adult size ATVs. [ read more ] [05.18.13] EDMONTON - An Edmonton pediatrician is warning children under 16 not to ride ATVs as a sunny Victoria Day long weekend marks the start of the summer season. “Every long weekend that I work as an intensive care doctor, I see kids dying. Kids below the age of 16 should not be allowed to ride an ATV,” said Dr. Daniel Garros, a pediatric intensive care doctor at the Stollery Children’s Hospital. [ read more ] [05.01.13] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their All Terrain Vehicles (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [04.02.13] Two newspapers released today in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health have highlighted the costs associated with fatal quad bike incidents and compared the behavior of the quads industry in opposing safety improvements to that of tobacco companies. [03.05.13] WASHINGTON (March 5, 2020) — No child under the age of 16 should be allowed to drive or ride an all-terrain vehicle, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Federation of America (CFA)warned in a joint press release. While child deaths from ATV accidents decreased slightly in 2011, according to the latest statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 57 children nonetheless died that year in ATV crashes, and another 29,000 were hurt seriously enough to require emergency treatment, the two organizations said. [ read more ] [03.04.13] Deaths reported on all-terrain vehicles in 2011 decreased dramatically, according to a report out today from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The death toll of 327 reported for 2011 — the latest year available — could increase by hundreds when the commission receives more coroners' and other medical examiner reports. But it is the lowest early number of reported fatalities by far in recent years. [ read more ] [02.19.13] PGabe Lancaster, Osage native and research intern for Emergency Medicine at the University of IowaHospitals and Clinics, presented his concerns regarding the county's resolution on the usage of ATVs (all terrain vehicles) in the county at a recent board of supervisors meeting. Lancaster, along with Dr. Gerene Denning, Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, expressed his concern about ATVs being used on the road. [ read more ] [02.16.13] PITTSFIELD -- A 31-year-old Chicopee woman is facing criminal charges for allegedly allowing a then 15-year-old relative from Springfield to drive an all-terrain vehicle, ending in a crash in which both were hurt, the teen severely. Kimberly A. Philpott of Bostwick Lane is scheduled to be arraigned on six charges on March 11 in Central Berkshire District Court. She is facing a maximum of 21 years in jail or a $5,000 fine, or both, if convicted. [ read more ] [01.31.13] Jan. 31, 2013 — Children continue to account for a disproportionate percentage of morbidity and mortality from ATV-related accidents -- up 240 percent since 1997, according to a Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics report published by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [12.03.12] Another death involving a youngster and an all-terrain vehicle should serve as an undeniable and emphatic wake-up call for the public — and for the state legislature. We join state Sen. Bill Purcell, D.-Laurinburg, in calling for stricter ATV regulations to help prevent such tragedies. A 7-year-old Salisbury boy was killed in an ATV wreck on Nov. 22. [ read more ] [12.02.12] The death of 12-year-old Brittany Dawn Adkinson in an all-terrain vehicle accident Nov. 25 has sparked discussion about the safety of ATVs when operated by children. The crash, during which a 6-year-old was operating the adult-size ATV and injured Brittany's 9-year-old brother who was also on the vehicle, happened on private property. [ read more ] Rising number of ATV crashes causing injury, death sparks call for more training by users ELLETTSVILLE, Ind. — A deadly crash in Monroe County last weekend is calling attention to the dangers of all-terrain vehicles across the state. Twenty-five-year-old Daniel Cutshaw of Spencer became the 14th person in Indiana this year to die in an ATV crash. [ read more ] [10.28.12] 8:54PM EDT October 28. 2012 - Federal and state authorities are investigating allegations that the country's largest Honda power sports dealership sold unsafe motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes. [ read more ] [10.24.12] WEDNESDAY, Oct. 24 (HealthDay News) -- Less than 37 percent of children injured in an all-terrain vehicle crash were wearing a helmet, and nearly 60 percent of them were riding again within six months after being injured, according to a new study. [ read more ] [10.22.12] NEW ORLEANS – All-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufacturer warning labels aimed at children under age 16 are largely ineffective, and formal dealer-sponsored training is infrequently offered and deemed unnecessary by most young ATV users, according to new research presented at the Oct. 22 at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference and Exhibition in New Orleans. [ read more ] [09.05.12] I’ve written before about the use of ATVs in this province and the terrible attitudes many have about their use. Some users have their ATVs to facilitate hunting, getting firewood or working on their acreage. For those, the ATV is a seen as a tool. Unfortunately for many others it is a toy — a recreational vehicle for family enjoyment. [ read more ] [08.29.12] CALGARY — With off-road fanatics gearing up for the summer’s last long weekend, a physicians’ group has added its voice to the fight to toughen laws on ATV use. The Canadian Paediatric Society is calling for provinces to ban children under 16 years old from operating all-terrain vehicles. [ read more ] [08.23.12] Thousands of children are being seriously injured in all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents every year. In fact, the number of accidents and injuries has doubled in the last 10 years. Children are less likely to be riding ATVs compared with adults but they make up a full one-third of all injuries. And some of those accidents result in death. [ read more ] [07.18.12] THE Federal Government is poised to make roll-over protection on ATVs mandatory. In a major turn of events, Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten said the Government would intervene if manufacturers did not do something to curb the "unacceptably high" death rates and injuries associated with ATVs. Last year a record 23 people died following accidents involving ATVs. [ read more ] [06.28.12] WASHINGTON, June 28, 2020 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging ATV riders to stay safe on the trails and make 2012 the year that curbs the annual rise in deaths and injuries seen every summer. On average for 2004 to 2006, deaths of children aged 16 and younger rose about 65 percent from March to April. [ read more ] [06.27.12] Carolyn Anderson never knew her son was riding an ATV, until the call came to tell her that 14-year-old James had been in an accident and was being rushed to the hospital. “I screamed,” Anderson told TODAY. “It was like this primal scream. I intuitively just knew..." [ read more ] [05.24.12] Newswise — Many all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails officially open over Memorial Day weekend. Doctors with the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt are urging both adults and children to stay safe this riding season. Already this week in Middle Tennessee there have been multiple ATV accidents resulting in injuries and death. [ read more ] [05.20.12] Warm weather is here and school is winding down. For thousands of Indiana kids that means spending long days outside enjoying summer activities. One activity gaining in popularity involves riding All-Terrain Vehicles, commonly known as ATV's. [ read more ] [05.16.12] MADISON, Wis. - A string of fatal all-terrain vehicle crashes has Department of Natural Resources wardens and doctors urging people to get proper safety training. Each year, 40,000 children across the country are injured in ATV crashes. In Wisconsin, three people, including a child, have died in ATV crashes since April. [ read more ] [04.20.12] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their all-terrain vehicles (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [01.13.12] DALLAS - A young North Texas girl is in for a long recovery after an ATV accident. At 11 years old Baylee Littlefield doesn’t let anything get her down. But lately it has taken everything she’s got. “My life is not giving up. I never give up. I always try harder and hard every day to get better,” she said. But she admitted “sometimes it makes me sad.” [ read more ] [01.12.12] What weighs up to 800 pounds, travels up to 75 mph, and doesn’t require a license? Could be your family’s new ATV. If your kids are asking to drive it or to ride along, consider a New Year’s safety resolution. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, kids under age 16 account for 28% of ATV-related deaths. About 40,000 children under 16 land in hospital emergency rooms annually because of an ATV injury. [ read more ] [12.20.11] Washington, DC – According to data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2010. Tragically, however, at least 55 children lost their lives and 28,300 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [12.03.11] It seems like this has been a big year for ATV accidents and tragedies. Despite continued warnings about the dangers of ATVs and reports of severe injuries and deaths and new ATV safety laws, we continue to hear about ATV tragedies. The latest is a 16-year-old who died on Thanksgiving Day in Caswell County, North Carolina. He was riding with a 14-year-old passenger when their ATV rolled over while they were turning in an open field. [ read more ] [11.04.11] All terrain vehicles, used for off-road recreation especially in rural areas, are responsible for a significant number of pediatric injuries and deaths, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics’ advice that children under the age of 16 should not be using ATVs. The AAP’s position has been echoed by Consumer Reports coverage through the years as well. [ read more ] [10.04.11] The tragic quad-biking death of an 11-year-old boy from northwest Victoria on Monday takes the 2011 death toll from all terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents to 17. The boy reportedly died after his ATV overturned while he was herding cows. This accident shouldn’t have happened but it’s part of a growing trend of injury and deaths associated with these widely-used farming vehicles. [ read more ] [10.03.11] Thank you to The Sun's editorial board for highlighting the gaps in current Maryland laws regarding all-terrain vehicles ("The unregulated ATV," Sept. 26). Readers now know that Maryland doesn't require ATV drivers to pass a safety test, attend a safety course or possess a driver's license, and that there's no minimum age requirement or even a mandatory helmet law in our state. [ read more ] [8.31.11] When the Chief Coroner of Ontario speaks, people ought to listen. That's a bit of a no-brainer. The chief coroner's livelihood is death. This person understands death and its causes and moreover understands how to prevent death by accident or misadventure. Following the death of a 10-year-old boy in Northern Ontario, the coroner issued a reminder of the dangers ATVs pose to children, as well as a recommendation that no child under the age of 16 ride a full-size ATV. [ read more ] [8.25.11] As the summer season draws to an end, it is important to remain safe and try to avoid the summer “accidents” before the weather turns cooler and outdoor activities become more limited. Some of your patients’ parents may say, “Well, there is nothing you can do about it. Accidents just happen.” But that isn’t true. Accidents do not just happen. Unintentional injuries, such as the infectious diseases that once killed children, are predictable, preventable and controllable. [ read more ] [7.17.11] Nationwide, approximately 130 children younger than 16 years old die each year as a result of ATV-related injuries. Moreover, an estimated 40,000 children younger than 16 are seriously injured each year in ATV-related incidents. [ read more ] [7.29.11] The number of Canadians seriously hurt due to collisions involving all-terrain vehicles continues to mount. And that's got some people thinking the minimum age for driving ATVs should rise. According to a study released Thursday, 3,386 Canadians required hospitalization in 2009 because of ATV-related injuries, compared with 3,193 the previous year. Nearly 450 of the injuries involved kids age 14 and under. [ read more ] [6.17.11] Well, we’re into a new death season. The snowmobile one is over, and we’re now into the ATV death season. Over the last few decades, we’ve become wealthy enough to afford powerful, shiny machines to speed us to our graves. If you don’t think we’re a rich society, you’re just too recently born. [ read more ] [6.16.11] A 12-year-old near Hagerstown, in northwestern Maryland, died yesterday at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, a few days after the ATV he was riding on overturned in the driveway of his home. As many parents are aware, these types of ATV accidents and tragedies aren't rare. There were at least 16 deaths in Maryland associated with riding an ATV between 2007 and 2009 and 1,758 deaths nationally (including 216 children and teens) during the same time period. [ read more ] [5.31.11] EDMONTON — Alberta Health Services physicians are urging parents not to allow children under 16 to drive all-terrain vehicles because they are too dangerous. The government agency says emergency physicians at Edmonton's Stollery Children's Hospital have treated four children with severe ATV injuries this month, including two who died. [ read more ] [6.07.11] Summer has arrived in the north! It’s a time of increased outdoor activities and fun, but don’t let your fun turn into tragedy. Researchers estimate that 90 per cent of brain injuries are predictable and preventable. Damage to the brain can rarely be repaired and life after a brain injury is never the same. [ read more ] [5.26.11] BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) - Cranking up an ATV is a common way to get outdoors and spend time with family, but the number of children critically injured from ATV accidents in the Birmingham area is on the rise. The medical staff at Children's Hospital says they're seeing more and more children coming in with critical injuries from ATV accidents. Some kids as young as three years old. [ read more ] [5.22.11] Over lunch one sunny spring day, a fellow physician recounted a recent office visit with an active 8-year-old boy who had injured several fingers falling off a dirt bike. The child was going to be uncomfortable and inconvenienced for a little while, but was otherwise going to be OK. My colleague was still concerned, and was curious about the American Academy of Pediatrics' stand on the use of off-road motorized bikes and vehicles by children and teens. [ read more ] [5.07.11] It’s almost inconceivable that the RNC has to call a press conference to tell parents not to let their underage children ride ATVs. It’s understandable that the children look at the motorized machines and want to speed off with their friends ... but why any responsible parent would hand over the keys to them is mind-boggling. Every year there are deaths and serious injuries reported from incidents with these four-wheeled machines that have become ubiquitous in every corner of this province. [ read more ] [4.03.11] Six year old Jay Thomas Patton reportedly died after a four-wheeler accident in Collinsville in February. According to authorities: the kindergartener was wearing a helmet and safety gear, and was under adult supervision, but simply rounded a turn too quickly, flipped the four-wheeler, and landed awkwardly. About thirty eight children in Alabama have been killed in ATV related accidents over the last seven years and even non-fatal accidents can be very serious, according to Dr. Kathy Monroe, E.R. Physician at Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [5.13.11] Eight years ago Pam and Steve Saylor dropped their son Chandler off at a friend's "swimming" birthday party. At some point during the party a decision was made to allow the boys at the party to ride ATVs (all terrain vehicles). It was a decision that would forever change the lives of the Saylors - and one that would end Chandler's life. What many don't know about Chandler's accident is that he died trying to avoid hitting another boy. And, if you've ever had the privilege of meeting the Saylors, it's not hard to see where this selfless act came from. [ read more ] [5.09.11] Less than two weeks ago on Bravo television, The Real Housewives of New York City took a risky ride on a couple of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). In a scene that lasted for less than 45 seconds, the characters managed to misuse the vehicles in numerous ways. They—and worse, their children—were at a greater risk of injury and potentially death because they lacked helmets, rode tandem and allowed children to drive and ride two abreast as passengers behind the driver. [ read more ] [4.01.11] ROSEMONT, Ill., April 1, 2020 -- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were introduced in this country in the 1970s. Currently, there are approximately 9.5 million ATVs in use and more than 150,000 reported ATV-related injuries in this country annually. The rapid rise in ATV-related injuries is due to increased use and also to the production of larger, faster, and more powerful vehicles, according to a review article that was recently published in the April issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS). [ read more ] [3.14.11] An ATV accident near Lake Texoma, Oklahoma, a popular spring break vacation spot, again highlights how tragedies can happen when kids are allowed to operate ATVs. A nine-year-old girl died when the ATV she was driving flipped over, also injuring an eight-year-old passenger on the ATV. Although the American Academy of Pediatrics has long supported laws that 'prohibit the use of ATVs, on- or off-road, by children and adolescents younger than 16 years,' the ATV laws in Oklahoma are still rather weak. [ read more ] [3.02.11] There is a significant risk of morbidity for children who sustain spinal cord injuries from All-terrain vehicle accidents, according to recent research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting in San Diego. The study examined 52 spine injuries among 29 patients with a mean age of 15.8 years. Fourty-five percent of the patients sustained multiple spine injuries. [ read more ] [2.22.11] It would be wonderful if all parents were so committed to their children's well-being that laws requiring them to attend school were unnecessary. It would be wonderful if all parents kept up with their children's health needs and didn't need the law to make them vaccinate their children for public school. But not everyone does right by children without being instructed by the law. [ read more ] [2.13.11] WEATHERFORD — Mackina Dobrinski woke up, spread eagle in a tree with her back pinned down by a four-wheeler. Her friend, Keirra, pulled the vehicle from Mackina’s back, worked the girl out of the tree and onto the ground. “I can’t feel my legs!” Mackina said. Moments earlier, the 14-year-old and Keirra had hopped on the all-terrain vehicle to take advantage of that sunny May morning. [ read more ] [1.07.11] HOUSTON—A Houston mother was charged with child endangerment after police said she took her two young children out on a four-wheeler and crashed the vehicle. According to investigators, Nelli Palucho, 20, took her 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son out on her ATV on December 3, 2020. [ read more ] [12.22.10] Although the numbers look promising with respect to the small decline of fatalities to children under age 16, it is important to note that these numbers are only ESTIMATES and once all the data is collected they will eventually climb again. The report for 2008 stated there were an estimated 74 deaths of children younger than 16. [ read more ] [11.18.10] BOSTON, MASS – In September, Massachusetts passed the toughest ATV law in the nation, becoming the first state to ban All-Terrain Vehicle use for children 14 years and younger. In October, researchers for the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health announced the results of a study showing that ATVs were responsible for significant and rising hospitalizations of children 18 and younger. [ read more ] [10.28.10] More children are racing ATVs, sometimes with disastrous consequences. [ watch video ] [10.15.10] All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, can be heard buzzing through woods and fields across America all summer long, as outdoor enthusiasts from seven to 70 enjoy getting close to nature on the three and four-wheel machines. More than half a million are sold in the U.S. each year, and they've also become popular vacation rentals. But the thrill of the ride can come at a heavy price. Since federal officials began tracking deaths from ATV crashes in the 1980s, more than 10,000 people have died. [ read more ] [ photo gallery ] [10.12.10] All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are associated with a significant and increasing number of hospitalizations for children in the U.S., according to a new report by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Over a nine- year period (1997-2006) hospitalizations for ATV injuries increased 150 percent among youth younger than 18 years, with important demographic variations. Rates increased the most dramatically in the South and Midwest, and among teens ages 15 to 17. [ read more ] [10.06.10] WASHINGTON, DC — If you think an all-terrain vehicle, or ATV, is safer than a motorcycle, think again. People are far more likely to die after ATV accidents than after motorcycle accidents, trauma surgeons and public health researchers said today at the annual meeting of the American College of Surgeons. They had information from a national trauma bank on nearly 60,000 accidents that occurred between 2002 and 2006 (13,749 from off-road motorcycle riding and 44,509 from ATV mishaps). [ read more ] [10.05.10] Doctors are seeing more people with brain and spinal cord injuries related to ATV use, and many of the injured are youngsters, according to a new study published in the October issue of Neurosurgery, the official journal of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. The researchers say there were about 1,117,000 emergency room visits and 495 deaths due to ATV injuries nationwide in 2001, increases of 211 percent and 159 percent respectively from 1993. They estimate national costs of ATV-associated injuries are $3.24 billion a year. . [ read more ] [09.03.10] Notice to the tens of thousands of Massachusetts families with All-Terrain Vehicles: If you were ever foolhardy enough to let children ride your ATV, those days are over. Amid the flurry of bills passed at the end of July was one that, as of Oct. 1, makes Massachusetts the first state in the nation to declare ATVs off-limits to children under 14, the bill’s backers say. [ read more ] [08.29.10] SUMMERVILLE -- As Kayla Beczynski got ready to return to school this year, her biggest concern was what other students at Summerville High would think of her. Kayla had been out of school since May 2009, when an all-terrain-vehicle wreck left her paralyzed and battling for her life. In the months that followed, she endured endless surgeries, therapies and evaluations as she fought her way back. [ read more ] [08.01.10] New legislation putting serious restrictions on all-terrain-vehicle riding is garnering praise from parents whose children have been injured or killed on these three- and four-wheeled off-road vehicles, and criticism from ATV enthusiasts. [ read more ] [08.23.10] A Louisiana woman and a teenage boy from Washington state are dead following two separate Yamaha Rhino ATV accidents that occurred over the weekend in two different states. Years after safety problems with the Yamaha Rhino side-by-side off-road vehicle were identified, riders and passengers continue to die and suffer serious injuries in rollover accidents with the ATV. [ read more ] [07.31.10] BOSTON - Saturday, July 31, 2020- Governor Deval Patrick today signed into law a bill aimed at increasing the safety of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding and heightening the protection of natural resources on public and private lands used by OHVs by raising the minimum age requirement for OHV riding and increasing penalties for illegal riding.
[07.21.10] Oklahoma is a recreational enthusiast's paradise, with offerings ranging from lakes and rivers to woodlands, mountains and trails. Among outdoor activities growing in popularity is the use of all-terrain vehicles in unpopulated areas. The vehicles look like a lot of fun to ride, but sadly, for hundreds of Oklahoma families, they will mean tragedy. [ read more ] [06.14.10] It's peak season for many outdoor sports, including all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding. As millions of riders hit the trails, there are renewed warnings about the safety of ATVs. "Early Show" Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen cited the Consumer Product Safety Commission, saying in the month of April alone there were 40 deaths on ATVs, 12 of them were children under 16. In May, 13 children were killed. [ watch video ] [06.10.10] In a bipartisan bid to save kids’ from battered brains and busted bones, the House voted yesterday to hike the state’s minimum age for operating an all-terrain vehicle from 10 to 14. Following the trail blazed by the Senate in January, state Rep. Peter J. Koutoujian (D-Waltham) said “Sean’s Bill” - named in honor of 8-year-old Sean Kearney of Plymouth, who was crushed to death by an ATV in 2006 while on a playdate - passed 141-12. [ read more ] [05.28.10] WASHINGTON, May 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) riders to take precautions to stay safe this holiday weekend and riding season. For the 4-day period surrounding the 2009 Memorial Day holiday, CPSC is aware of 27 fatalities, with two under the age of 16, averaging almost seven deaths a day. [ read more ] [05.27.10] Toronto, Ontario – All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are powerful machines that are beyond the skill level of children and youth, according to brain and spinal cord injury prevention association ThinkFirst Canada, which is warning parents not to teach their children to ride them. [ read more ] [05.25.10] In late January, the Massachusetts Senate passed a bill that would have improved safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). But the House has yet to act on it. Considering the growing popularity of dirt bikes on Cape Cod and the Islands, our legislative delegation needs to convince the leadership to push this legislation to the floor for a vote. [ read more ] [04.14.10] The mother of a 12-year-old boy killed while riding an all terrain vehicle nearly three years ago is now calling for an all-out ban on the machine for young children. The woman's message comes as a fatality inquiry into her son's death emerges. Kirkland Gour died in 2007 after his ATV flipped near the family's home in Nampa, Alta. [ read more ] [04.08.10] Makers of all-terrain vehicles promised to monitor dealers to prevent the sale of powerful adult model ATVs to kids under 16. But an undercover investigation by the Government Accounting Office suggests self-policing isn’t working. [ read more ] [03.23.10] Larry Foreman is “a libertarian at heart,” but not when it comes to kids. A veteran emergency room physician — he works at the closest ER to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area in San Luis Obispo County, California — he’s seen an endless queue of injured riders of all-terrain vehicles, including children as young as 4. Eventually, Foreman had enough and began speaking out about kids and ATVs. [ read more ] [03.11.10] Two new studies report a high rate of severe injuries -- including amputations, spinal injuries and even death -- among children who ride all-terrain vehicles. "A spine injury is such a devastating injury for a young person," said Dr. Jeffrey R. Sawyer, an assistant professor of orthopaedics with the Campbell Clinic at the University of Tennessee, and a co-author on both papers. [ read more ] [03.09.10] Q: My 12-year-old son has been begging for one of those four-wheel ATVs (all terrain vehicles). I am very worried; how safe are these? A: The statistics for the estimated 2 million or so children under 16 years old who ride ATVs are concerning. Over 100,000 kids are injured every year while riding an ATV, with 40,000 requiring a visit to the emergency room due to the severity of their injuries. [ read more ] [03.08.10] Every time Dr. Shannon Smith hears of a child being injured or killed in an ATV accident she’s more convinced that Mississippi needs a tougher ATV safety law. That’s one of the reason’s Smith, a pediatric rehab physician at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, has written letters and called members of the Mississippi Legislature to encourage tougher ATV safety laws. [ read more ] 02.01.10] Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) announced recently that the Senate has passed legislation improving safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in Massachusetts. The bill requires ATVs, off-road motorcycles and snowmobiles to be registered and all operators to wear helmets. It also establishes a minimum age of use for ATVs. [ read more ] [01.28.10] Data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) show child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2008. However, at least 74 children lost their lives and more than 37,000 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [ read more ] [12.18.09] State Rep. Dannie Reed, R-Ackerman, plans to introduce legislation to require safe practices and encourage safety education for all-terrain vehicle use. Reed issued a statement Thursday warning that ATV use is killing and injuring drivers and passengers more than hazards than normally dealt with in the state. [ read more ] [11.23.09] For parents wanting to provide their children some good, clean off-roading fun, the Fushin, a smaller-than-normal all-terrain vehicle, seemed just the thing. Except the Chinese import with jaunty yellow
paint and a low $250 price tag was missing one feature: front brakes. [10.24.09] On a warm Alberta summer's night in 2004, Ted Bosse received the news that would change his and his wife Teresa's lives forever. The all terrain vehicle their son Chris had been riding flipped, leaving him lying critically injured on the road. By the time that Ted Bosse got to his son, it
was clear that Chris wasn't going to survive. His father held him
but he was already gone. Chris was sober and an experienced ATV
driver. The road he was driving on was flat. [8.21.09] Last Friday night outside Williamsport, two 18-year-olds driving two all-terrain vehicles crashed head-on in a field. The boys, 2009 graduates of Jersey Shore High School, died of their injuries. A 14-year-old passenger was critically injured. Not one was wearing a helmet. [8.10.09] A 3-year-old girl died Saturday evening when the ATV her 8-year-old brother was driving crashed and rolled over on her, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office said in a news release. The boy suffered facial injuries, authorities said; the children's 10-year-old sister who also was on the vehicle escaped harm. [8.4.09] It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Keep kids safe when riding ATVs by following important safety rules It happened to an 11 year-old boy riding with his uncle. It happened to a 12 year-old boy wearing a helmet. It happened to a two year-old boy riding with his dad. It happened to a 16 year-old boy riding with a 13 year-old girl. And it happened to a six year-old girl riding with her stepsister. And they aren't the only ones. Trendy Off - Road Vehicle Poses Deadly Risk It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Children should not ride, drive ATVs Many families associate fun in the sun with riding three and four-wheel vehicles. All Terrain Vehicles Are 'Not a Toy' Says Michigan Accident Attorney Terry Cochran Misguided parents, wanting their children to have a good time, will buy an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) for family recreation only to have a loved one end up in the emergency room - possibly injured for life or worse. It's time to reduce the West's ATV carnage At least 24 people have been killed in all-terrain-vehicle accidents in the West since mid-March, the onset of warm riding weather. A 9-year-old girl in Arizona was among them. So were a 10-year-old boy in California, an off-duty sheriff's deputy in Utah, and 16-year-old girls in Wyoming and Arizona. [ read more ] All-Terrain Vehicles Potentially Lethal All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are potentially lethal and have the capacity to inflict serious harm, a study of injuries to children has confirmed. Physicians warn that ATVs, kids can be a dangerous combination Ft. Myers Florida Weekly All-terrain vehicles and kids can be a dangerous mix, especially for those who tend to treat the ATVs like toys instead of high-powered vehicles. [4.24.09] Three years ago, Roger Queen was riding an all-terrain vehicle on a curvy mountain road in North Carolina when he lost control and fell over the ledge. He landed on his feet nearly 60 feet below the road, crushing his spinal cord and shattering his spine. Yamaha Motor Corp. Offers Free Repair For 450, 660, and 700 Model Rhino Vehicles U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif., is announcing a free repair program to address safety issues with all Rhino 450, 660, and 700 model off-highway recreational vehicles. Yamaha has also agreed to voluntarily suspend sale of these models immediately until repaired. Consumers should immediately stop using these popular recreational vehicles until the repair is installed by a dealer. CPSC staff has investigated more than 50 incidents involving these three Rhino models, including 46 driver and passenger deaths involving the Rhino 450 and 660 models. More than two-thirds of the cases involved rollovers and many involved unbelted occupants. Of the rollover-related deaths and hundreds of reported injuries, some of which were serious, many appear to involve turns at relatively low speeds and on level terrain. About 120,000 of the 450 and 660 model Rhinos have been distributed nationwide since Fall 2003. Some units have been equipped by Yamaha with half doors and additional passenger handholds, either before or after sale. [ read more ] [3.19.09] When Katie Tuminello was flung from a four-wheeler this summer, the crash caused so many injuries that she was flown by helicopter to a Baton Rouge hospital. [2.27.09] The safety defects of some Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), also called "Side-by-Side" vehicles, are causing a mounting toll of death and severe injury to users, warns a report issued today by a group of safety advocates and victims. The report calls for basic changes in the design of these rollover-prone off-road vehicles to substantially increase their ability to protect occupants in the event of rollover accidents. The report, entitled "Citizen Report on UTV Vehicle Hazards," has been submitted by victims of UTV rollovers, including the parents of children killed or injured in such accidents, as well as adult victims, the Trauma Foundation, and the Center for Auto Safety. News Reports Find Poor Design of Rhino Terrain Vehicles Linked to Serious Injuries and Deaths PPR Web South Florida law firm Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley PA (Searcy Denney) steps up its investigation into serious injuries and deaths tied to design defects in Yamaha Rhino® all terrain vehicles. The Rhino®, classified as a "utility terrain vehicle," is not subject to the same safety standards as other ATVs. [1.17.09] In December, a West Virginia mother pleaded not guilty to child neglect charges stemming from an all-terrain vehicle wreck in which her 2-year-old son was hurt. She ran off the road into a ditch, and the ATV flipped several times, according to police reports.
[2.28.09] After losing part of his leg in an ATV accident last year, a Brevard County teen is playing baseball once again. Dakota "Kody" Best, 13, took the mound Friday for his JV team at Florida Air Academy. [ read more ][2.27.09] It was an accident that nearly took the life of 8-year-old Cassidy Smith of Sanilac County. But the staff at Hurley Medical Center in Flint was able to save her life. [ read more ]CURRENT NEWS | 2008 ARCHIVE | 2007 ARCHIVE | 2005 ARCHIVE
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| NEWS STORIES Below are recent news stories about ATV safety. If you have seen any news stories or developments you think we should post, please contact us. [05.01.13] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their All Terrain Vehicles (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [04.02.13] Two newspapers released today in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health have highlighted the costs associated with fatal quad bike incidents and compared the behavior of the quads industry in opposing safety improvements to that of tobacco companies. [03.05.13] WASHINGTON (March 5, 2020) — No child under the age of 16 should be allowed to drive or ride an all-terrain vehicle, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Federation of America (CFA)warned in a joint press release. While child deaths from ATV accidents decreased slightly in 2011, according to the latest statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 57 children nonetheless died that year in ATV crashes, and another 29,000 were hurt seriously enough to require emergency treatment, the two organizations said. [ read more ] [03.04.13] Deaths reported on all-terrain vehicles in 2011 decreased dramatically, according to a report out today from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The death toll of 327 reported for 2011 — the latest year available — could increase by hundreds when the commission receives more coroners' and other medical examiner reports. But it is the lowest early number of reported fatalities by far in recent years. [ read more ] [02.19.13] PGabe Lancaster, Osage native and research intern for Emergency Medicine at the University of IowaHospitals and Clinics, presented his concerns regarding the county's resolution on the usage of ATVs (all terrain vehicles) in the county at a recent board of supervisors meeting. Lancaster, along with Dr. Gerene Denning, Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, expressed his concern about ATVs being used on the road. [ read more ] [02.16.13] PITTSFIELD -- A 31-year-old Chicopee woman is facing criminal charges for allegedly allowing a then 15-year-old relative from Springfield to drive an all-terrain vehicle, ending in a crash in which both were hurt, the teen severely. Kimberly A. Philpott of Bostwick Lane is scheduled to be arraigned on six charges on March 11 in Central Berkshire District Court. She is facing a maximum of 21 years in jail or a $5,000 fine, or both, if convicted. [ read more ] [01.31.13] Jan. 31, 2013 — Children continue to account for a disproportionate percentage of morbidity and mortality from ATV-related accidents -- up 240 percent since 1997, according to a Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics report published by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [12.03.12] Another death involving a youngster and an all-terrain vehicle should serve as an undeniable and emphatic wake-up call for the public — and for the state legislature. We join state Sen. Bill Purcell, D.-Laurinburg, in calling for stricter ATV regulations to help prevent such tragedies. A 7-year-old Salisbury boy was killed in an ATV wreck on Nov. 22. [ read more ] [12.02.12] The death of 12-year-old Brittany Dawn Adkinson in an all-terrain vehicle accident Nov. 25 has sparked discussion about the safety of ATVs when operated by children. The crash, during which a 6-year-old was operating the adult-size ATV and injured Brittany's 9-year-old brother who was also on the vehicle, happened on private property. [ read more ] Rising number of ATV crashes causing injury, death sparks call for more training by users ELLETTSVILLE, Ind. — A deadly crash in Monroe County last weekend is calling attention to the dangers of all-terrain vehicles across the state. Twenty-five-year-old Daniel Cutshaw of Spencer became the 14th person in Indiana this year to die in an ATV crash. [ read more ] [10.28.12] 8:54PM EDT October 28. 2012 - Federal and state authorities are investigating allegations that the country's largest Honda power sports dealership sold unsafe motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes. [ read more ] [10.24.12] WEDNESDAY, Oct. 24 (HealthDay News) -- Less than 37 percent of children injured in an all-terrain vehicle crash were wearing a helmet, and nearly 60 percent of them were riding again within six months after being injured, according to a new study. [ read more ] [10.22.12] NEW ORLEANS – All-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufacturer warning labels aimed at children under age 16 are largely ineffective, and formal dealer-sponsored training is infrequently offered and deemed unnecessary by most young ATV users, according to new research presented at the Oct. 22 at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference and Exhibition in New Orleans. [ read more ] [09.05.12] I’ve written before about the use of ATVs in this province and the terrible attitudes many have about their use. Some users have their ATVs to facilitate hunting, getting firewood or working on their acreage. For those, the ATV is a seen as a tool. Unfortunately for many others it is a toy — a recreational vehicle for family enjoyment. [ read more ] [08.29.12] CALGARY — With off-road fanatics gearing up for the summer’s last long weekend, a physicians’ group has added its voice to the fight to toughen laws on ATV use. The Canadian Paediatric Society is calling for provinces to ban children under 16 years old from operating all-terrain vehicles. [ read more ] [08.23.12] Thousands of children are being seriously injured in all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents every year. In fact, the number of accidents and injuries has doubled in the last 10 years. Children are less likely to be riding ATVs compared with adults but they make up a full one-third of all injuries. And some of those accidents result in death. [ read more ] [07.18.12] THE Federal Government is poised to make roll-over protection on ATVs mandatory. In a major turn of events, Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten said the Government would intervene if manufacturers did not do something to curb the "unacceptably high" death rates and injuries associated with ATVs. Last year a record 23 people died following accidents involving ATVs. [ read more ] [06.28.12] WASHINGTON, June 28, 2020 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging ATV riders to stay safe on the trails and make 2012 the year that curbs the annual rise in deaths and injuries seen every summer. On average for 2004 to 2006, deaths of children aged 16 and younger rose about 65 percent from March to April. [ read more ] [06.27.12] Carolyn Anderson never knew her son was riding an ATV, until the call came to tell her that 14-year-old James had been in an accident and was being rushed to the hospital. “I screamed,” Anderson told TODAY. “It was like this primal scream. I intuitively just knew..." [ read more ] [05.24.12] Newswise — Many all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails officially open over Memorial Day weekend. Doctors with the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt are urging both adults and children to stay safe this riding season. Already this week in Middle Tennessee there have been multiple ATV accidents resulting in injuries and death. [ read more ] [05.20.12] Warm weather is here and school is winding down. For thousands of Indiana kids that means spending long days outside enjoying summer activities. One activity gaining in popularity involves riding All-Terrain Vehicles, commonly known as ATV's. [ read more ] [05.16.12] MADISON, Wis. - A string of fatal all-terrain vehicle crashes has Department of Natural Resources wardens and doctors urging people to get proper safety training. Each year, 40,000 children across the country are injured in ATV crashes. In Wisconsin, three people, including a child, have died in ATV crashes since April. [ read more ] [04.20.12] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their all-terrain vehicles (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [01.13.12] DALLAS - A young North Texas girl is in for a long recovery after an ATV accident. At 11 years old Baylee Littlefield doesn’t let anything get her down. But lately it has taken everything she’s got. “My life is not giving up. I never give up. I always try harder and hard every day to get better,” she said. But she admitted “sometimes it makes me sad.” [ read more ] [01.12.12] What weighs up to 800 pounds, travels up to 75 mph, and doesn’t require a license? Could be your family’s new ATV. If your kids are asking to drive it or to ride along, consider a New Year’s safety resolution. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, kids under age 16 account for 28% of ATV-related deaths. About 40,000 children under 16 land in hospital emergency rooms annually because of an ATV injury. [ read more ] [12.20.11] Washington, DC – According to data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2010. Tragically, however, at least 55 children lost their lives and 28,300 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [12.03.11] It seems like this has been a big year for ATV accidents and tragedies. Despite continued warnings about the dangers of ATVs and reports of severe injuries and deaths and new ATV safety laws, we continue to hear about ATV tragedies. The latest is a 16-year-old who died on Thanksgiving Day in Caswell County, North Carolina. He was riding with a 14-year-old passenger when their ATV rolled over while they were turning in an open field. [ read more ] [11.04.11] All terrain vehicles, used for off-road recreation especially in rural areas, are responsible for a significant number of pediatric injuries and deaths, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics’ advice that children under the age of 16 should not be using ATVs. The AAP’s position has been echoed by Consumer Reports coverage through the years as well. [ read more ] [10.04.11] The tragic quad-biking death of an 11-year-old boy from northwest Victoria on Monday takes the 2011 death toll from all terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents to 17. The boy reportedly died after his ATV overturned while he was herding cows. This accident shouldn’t have happened but it’s part of a growing trend of injury and deaths associated with these widely-used farming vehicles. [ read more ] [10.03.11] Thank you to The Sun's editorial board for highlighting the gaps in current Maryland laws regarding all-terrain vehicles ("The unregulated ATV," Sept. 26). Readers now know that Maryland doesn't require ATV drivers to pass a safety test, attend a safety course or possess a driver's license, and that there's no minimum age requirement or even a mandatory helmet law in our state. [ read more ] [8.31.11] When the Chief Coroner of Ontario speaks, people ought to listen. That's a bit of a no-brainer. The chief coroner's livelihood is death. This person understands death and its causes and moreover understands how to prevent death by accident or misadventure. Following the death of a 10-year-old boy in Northern Ontario, the coroner issued a reminder of the dangers ATVs pose to children, as well as a recommendation that no child under the age of 16 ride a full-size ATV. [ read more ] [8.25.11] As the summer season draws to an end, it is important to remain safe and try to avoid the summer “accidents” before the weather turns cooler and outdoor activities become more limited. Some of your patients’ parents may say, “Well, there is nothing you can do about it. Accidents just happen.” But that isn’t true. Accidents do not just happen. Unintentional injuries, such as the infectious diseases that once killed children, are predictable, preventable and controllable. [ read more ] [7.17.11] Nationwide, approximately 130 children younger than 16 years old die each year as a result of ATV-related injuries. Moreover, an estimated 40,000 children younger than 16 are seriously injured each year in ATV-related incidents. [ read more ] [7.29.11] The number of Canadians seriously hurt due to collisions involving all-terrain vehicles continues to mount. And that's got some people thinking the minimum age for driving ATVs should rise. According to a study released Thursday, 3,386 Canadians required hospitalization in 2009 because of ATV-related injuries, compared with 3,193 the previous year. Nearly 450 of the injuries involved kids age 14 and under. [ read more ] [6.17.11] Well, we’re into a new death season. The snowmobile one is over, and we’re now into the ATV death season. Over the last few decades, we’ve become wealthy enough to afford powerful, shiny machines to speed us to our graves. If you don’t think we’re a rich society, you’re just too recently born. [ read more ] [6.16.11] A 12-year-old near Hagerstown, in northwestern Maryland, died yesterday at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, a few days after the ATV he was riding on overturned in the driveway of his home. As many parents are aware, these types of ATV accidents and tragedies aren't rare. There were at least 16 deaths in Maryland associated with riding an ATV between 2007 and 2009 and 1,758 deaths nationally (including 216 children and teens) during the same time period. [ read more ] [5.31.11] EDMONTON — Alberta Health Services physicians are urging parents not to allow children under 16 to drive all-terrain vehicles because they are too dangerous. The government agency says emergency physicians at Edmonton's Stollery Children's Hospital have treated four children with severe ATV injuries this month, including two who died. [ read more ] [6.07.11] Summer has arrived in the north! It’s a time of increased outdoor activities and fun, but don’t let your fun turn into tragedy. Researchers estimate that 90 per cent of brain injuries are predictable and preventable. Damage to the brain can rarely be repaired and life after a brain injury is never the same. [ read more ] [5.26.11] BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) - Cranking up an ATV is a common way to get outdoors and spend time with family, but the number of children critically injured from ATV accidents in the Birmingham area is on the rise. The medical staff at Children's Hospital says they're seeing more and more children coming in with critical injuries from ATV accidents. Some kids as young as three years old. [ read more ] [5.22.11] Over lunch one sunny spring day, a fellow physician recounted a recent office visit with an active 8-year-old boy who had injured several fingers falling off a dirt bike. The child was going to be uncomfortable and inconvenienced for a little while, but was otherwise going to be OK. My colleague was still concerned, and was curious about the American Academy of Pediatrics' stand on the use of off-road motorized bikes and vehicles by children and teens. [ read more ] [5.07.11] It’s almost inconceivable that the RNC has to call a press conference to tell parents not to let their underage children ride ATVs. It’s understandable that the children look at the motorized machines and want to speed off with their friends ... but why any responsible parent would hand over the keys to them is mind-boggling. Every year there are deaths and serious injuries reported from incidents with these four-wheeled machines that have become ubiquitous in every corner of this province. [ read more ] [4.03.11] Six year old Jay Thomas Patton reportedly died after a four-wheeler accident in Collinsville in February. According to authorities: the kindergartener was wearing a helmet and safety gear, and was under adult supervision, but simply rounded a turn too quickly, flipped the four-wheeler, and landed awkwardly. About thirty eight children in Alabama have been killed in ATV related accidents over the last seven years and even non-fatal accidents can be very serious, according to Dr. Kathy Monroe, E.R. Physician at Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [5.13.11] Eight years ago Pam and Steve Saylor dropped their son Chandler off at a friend's "swimming" birthday party. At some point during the party a decision was made to allow the boys at the party to ride ATVs (all terrain vehicles). It was a decision that would forever change the lives of the Saylors - and one that would end Chandler's life. What many don't know about Chandler's accident is that he died trying to avoid hitting another boy. And, if you've ever had the privilege of meeting the Saylors, it's not hard to see where this selfless act came from. [ read more ] [5.09.11] Less than two weeks ago on Bravo television, The Real Housewives of New York City took a risky ride on a couple of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). In a scene that lasted for less than 45 seconds, the characters managed to misuse the vehicles in numerous ways. They—and worse, their children—were at a greater risk of injury and potentially death because they lacked helmets, rode tandem and allowed children to drive and ride two abreast as passengers behind the driver. [ read more ] [4.01.11] ROSEMONT, Ill., April 1, 2020 -- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were introduced in this country in the 1970s. Currently, there are approximately 9.5 million ATVs in use and more than 150,000 reported ATV-related injuries in this country annually. The rapid rise in ATV-related injuries is due to increased use and also to the production of larger, faster, and more powerful vehicles, according to a review article that was recently published in the April issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS). [ read more ] [3.14.11] An ATV accident near Lake Texoma, Oklahoma, a popular spring break vacation spot, again highlights how tragedies can happen when kids are allowed to operate ATVs. A nine-year-old girl died when the ATV she was driving flipped over, also injuring an eight-year-old passenger on the ATV. Although the American Academy of Pediatrics has long supported laws that 'prohibit the use of ATVs, on- or off-road, by children and adolescents younger than 16 years,' the ATV laws in Oklahoma are still rather weak. [ read more ] [3.02.11] There is a significant risk of morbidity for children who sustain spinal cord injuries from All-terrain vehicle accidents, according to recent research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting in San Diego. The study examined 52 spine injuries among 29 patients with a mean age of 15.8 years. Fourty-five percent of the patients sustained multiple spine injuries. [ read more ] [2.22.11] It would be wonderful if all parents were so committed to their children's well-being that laws requiring them to attend school were unnecessary. It would be wonderful if all parents kept up with their children's health needs and didn't need the law to make them vaccinate their children for public school. But not everyone does right by children without being instructed by the law. [ read more ] [2.13.11] WEATHERFORD — Mackina Dobrinski woke up, spread eagle in a tree with her back pinned down by a four-wheeler. Her friend, Keirra, pulled the vehicle from Mackina’s back, worked the girl out of the tree and onto the ground. “I can’t feel my legs!” Mackina said. Moments earlier, the 14-year-old and Keirra had hopped on the all-terrain vehicle to take advantage of that sunny May morning. [ read more ] [1.07.11] HOUSTON—A Houston mother was charged with child endangerment after police said she took her two young children out on a four-wheeler and crashed the vehicle. According to investigators, Nelli Palucho, 20, took her 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son out on her ATV on December 3, 2020. [ read more ] [12.22.10] Although the numbers look promising with respect to the small decline of fatalities to children under age 16, it is important to note that these numbers are only ESTIMATES and once all the data is collected they will eventually climb again. The report for 2008 stated there were an estimated 74 deaths of children younger than 16. [ read more ] [11.18.10] BOSTON, MASS – In September, Massachusetts passed the toughest ATV law in the nation, becoming the first state to ban All-Terrain Vehicle use for children 14 years and younger. In October, researchers for the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health announced the results of a study showing that ATVs were responsible for significant and rising hospitalizations of children 18 and younger. [ read more ] [10.28.10] More children are racing ATVs, sometimes with disastrous consequences. [ watch video ] [10.15.10] All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, can be heard buzzing through woods and fields across America all summer long, as outdoor enthusiasts from seven to 70 enjoy getting close to nature on the three and four-wheel machines. More than half a million are sold in the U.S. each year, and they've also become popular vacation rentals. But the thrill of the ride can come at a heavy price. Since federal officials began tracking deaths from ATV crashes in the 1980s, more than 10,000 people have died. [ read more ] [ photo gallery ] [10.12.10] All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are associated with a significant and increasing number of hospitalizations for children in the U.S., according to a new report by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Over a nine- year period (1997-2006) hospitalizations for ATV injuries increased 150 percent among youth younger than 18 years, with important demographic variations. Rates increased the most dramatically in the South and Midwest, and among teens ages 15 to 17. [ read more ] [10.06.10] WASHINGTON, DC — If you think an all-terrain vehicle, or ATV, is safer than a motorcycle, think again. People are far more likely to die after ATV accidents than after motorcycle accidents, trauma surgeons and public health researchers said today at the annual meeting of the American College of Surgeons. They had information from a national trauma bank on nearly 60,000 accidents that occurred between 2002 and 2006 (13,749 from off-road motorcycle riding and 44,509 from ATV mishaps). [ read more ] [10.05.10] Doctors are seeing more people with brain and spinal cord injuries related to ATV use, and many of the injured are youngsters, according to a new study published in the October issue of Neurosurgery, the official journal of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. The researchers say there were about 1,117,000 emergency room visits and 495 deaths due to ATV injuries nationwide in 2001, increases of 211 percent and 159 percent respectively from 1993. They estimate national costs of ATV-associated injuries are $3.24 billion a year. . [ read more ] [09.03.10] Notice to the tens of thousands of Massachusetts families with All-Terrain Vehicles: If you were ever foolhardy enough to let children ride your ATV, those days are over. Amid the flurry of bills passed at the end of July was one that, as of Oct. 1, makes Massachusetts the first state in the nation to declare ATVs off-limits to children under 14, the bill’s backers say. [ read more ] [08.29.10] SUMMERVILLE -- As Kayla Beczynski got ready to return to school this year, her biggest concern was what other students at Summerville High would think of her. Kayla had been out of school since May 2009, when an all-terrain-vehicle wreck left her paralyzed and battling for her life. In the months that followed, she endured endless surgeries, therapies and evaluations as she fought her way back. [ read more ] [08.01.10] New legislation putting serious restrictions on all-terrain-vehicle riding is garnering praise from parents whose children have been injured or killed on these three- and four-wheeled off-road vehicles, and criticism from ATV enthusiasts. [ read more ] [08.23.10] A Louisiana woman and a teenage boy from Washington state are dead following two separate Yamaha Rhino ATV accidents that occurred over the weekend in two different states. Years after safety problems with the Yamaha Rhino side-by-side off-road vehicle were identified, riders and passengers continue to die and suffer serious injuries in rollover accidents with the ATV. [ read more ] [07.31.10] BOSTON - Saturday, July 31, 2020- Governor Deval Patrick today signed into law a bill aimed at increasing the safety of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding and heightening the protection of natural resources on public and private lands used by OHVs by raising the minimum age requirement for OHV riding and increasing penalties for illegal riding.
[07.21.10] Oklahoma is a recreational enthusiast's paradise, with offerings ranging from lakes and rivers to woodlands, mountains and trails. Among outdoor activities growing in popularity is the use of all-terrain vehicles in unpopulated areas. The vehicles look like a lot of fun to ride, but sadly, for hundreds of Oklahoma families, they will mean tragedy. [ read more ] [06.14.10] It's peak season for many outdoor sports, including all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding. As millions of riders hit the trails, there are renewed warnings about the safety of ATVs. "Early Show" Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen cited the Consumer Product Safety Commission, saying in the month of April alone there were 40 deaths on ATVs, 12 of them were children under 16. In May, 13 children were killed. [ watch video ] [06.10.10] In a bipartisan bid to save kids’ from battered brains and busted bones, the House voted yesterday to hike the state’s minimum age for operating an all-terrain vehicle from 10 to 14. Following the trail blazed by the Senate in January, state Rep. Peter J. Koutoujian (D-Waltham) said “Sean’s Bill” - named in honor of 8-year-old Sean Kearney of Plymouth, who was crushed to death by an ATV in 2006 while on a playdate - passed 141-12. [ read more ] [05.28.10] WASHINGTON, May 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) riders to take precautions to stay safe this holiday weekend and riding season. For the 4-day period surrounding the 2009 Memorial Day holiday, CPSC is aware of 27 fatalities, with two under the age of 16, averaging almost seven deaths a day. [ read more ] [05.27.10] Toronto, Ontario – All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are powerful machines that are beyond the skill level of children and youth, according to brain and spinal cord injury prevention association ThinkFirst Canada, which is warning parents not to teach their children to ride them. [ read more ] [05.25.10] In late January, the Massachusetts Senate passed a bill that would have improved safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). But the House has yet to act on it. Considering the growing popularity of dirt bikes on Cape Cod and the Islands, our legislative delegation needs to convince the leadership to push this legislation to the floor for a vote. [ read more ] [04.14.10] The mother of a 12-year-old boy killed while riding an all terrain vehicle nearly three years ago is now calling for an all-out ban on the machine for young children. The woman's message comes as a fatality inquiry into her son's death emerges. Kirkland Gour died in 2007 after his ATV flipped near the family's home in Nampa, Alta. [ read more ] [04.08.10] Makers of all-terrain vehicles promised to monitor dealers to prevent the sale of powerful adult model ATVs to kids under 16. But an undercover investigation by the Government Accounting Office suggests self-policing isn’t working. [ read more ] [03.23.10] Larry Foreman is “a libertarian at heart,” but not when it comes to kids. A veteran emergency room physician — he works at the closest ER to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area in San Luis Obispo County, California — he’s seen an endless queue of injured riders of all-terrain vehicles, including children as young as 4. Eventually, Foreman had enough and began speaking out about kids and ATVs. [ read more ] [03.11.10] Two new studies report a high rate of severe injuries -- including amputations, spinal injuries and even death -- among children who ride all-terrain vehicles. "A spine injury is such a devastating injury for a young person," said Dr. Jeffrey R. Sawyer, an assistant professor of orthopaedics with the Campbell Clinic at the University of Tennessee, and a co-author on both papers. [ read more ] [03.09.10] Q: My 12-year-old son has been begging for one of those four-wheel ATVs (all terrain vehicles). I am very worried; how safe are these? A: The statistics for the estimated 2 million or so children under 16 years old who ride ATVs are concerning. Over 100,000 kids are injured every year while riding an ATV, with 40,000 requiring a visit to the emergency room due to the severity of their injuries. [ read more ] [03.08.10] Every time Dr. Shannon Smith hears of a child being injured or killed in an ATV accident she’s more convinced that Mississippi needs a tougher ATV safety law. That’s one of the reason’s Smith, a pediatric rehab physician at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, has written letters and called members of the Mississippi Legislature to encourage tougher ATV safety laws. [ read more ] 02.01.10] Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) announced recently that the Senate has passed legislation improving safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in Massachusetts. The bill requires ATVs, off-road motorcycles and snowmobiles to be registered and all operators to wear helmets. It also establishes a minimum age of use for ATVs. [ read more ] [01.28.10] Data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) show child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2008. However, at least 74 children lost their lives and more than 37,000 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [ read more ] [12.18.09] State Rep. Dannie Reed, R-Ackerman, plans to introduce legislation to require safe practices and encourage safety education for all-terrain vehicle use. Reed issued a statement Thursday warning that ATV use is killing and injuring drivers and passengers more than hazards than normally dealt with in the state. [ read more ] [11.23.09] For parents wanting to provide their children some good, clean off-roading fun, the Fushin, a smaller-than-normal all-terrain vehicle, seemed just the thing. Except the Chinese import with jaunty yellow
paint and a low $250 price tag was missing one feature: front brakes. [10.24.09] On a warm Alberta summer's night in 2004, Ted Bosse received the news that would change his and his wife Teresa's lives forever. The all terrain vehicle their son Chris had been riding flipped, leaving him lying critically injured on the road. By the time that Ted Bosse got to his son, it
was clear that Chris wasn't going to survive. His father held him
but he was already gone. Chris was sober and an experienced ATV
driver. The road he was driving on was flat. [8.21.09] Last Friday night outside Williamsport, two 18-year-olds driving two all-terrain vehicles crashed head-on in a field. The boys, 2009 graduates of Jersey Shore High School, died of their injuries. A 14-year-old passenger was critically injured. Not one was wearing a helmet. [8.10.09] A 3-year-old girl died Saturday evening when the ATV her 8-year-old brother was driving crashed and rolled over on her, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office said in a news release. The boy suffered facial injuries, authorities said; the children's 10-year-old sister who also was on the vehicle escaped harm. [8.4.09] It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Keep kids safe when riding ATVs by following important safety rules It happened to an 11 year-old boy riding with his uncle. It happened to a 12 year-old boy wearing a helmet. It happened to a two year-old boy riding with his dad. It happened to a 16 year-old boy riding with a 13 year-old girl. And it happened to a six year-old girl riding with her stepsister. And they aren't the only ones. Trendy Off - Road Vehicle Poses Deadly Risk It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Children should not ride, drive ATVs Many families associate fun in the sun with riding three and four-wheel vehicles. All Terrain Vehicles Are 'Not a Toy' Says Michigan Accident Attorney Terry Cochran Misguided parents, wanting their children to have a good time, will buy an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) for family recreation only to have a loved one end up in the emergency room - possibly injured for life or worse. It's time to reduce the West's ATV carnage At least 24 people have been killed in all-terrain-vehicle accidents in the West since mid-March, the onset of warm riding weather. A 9-year-old girl in Arizona was among them. So were a 10-year-old boy in California, an off-duty sheriff's deputy in Utah, and 16-year-old girls in Wyoming and Arizona. [ read more ] All-Terrain Vehicles Potentially Lethal All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are potentially lethal and have the capacity to inflict serious harm, a study of injuries to children has confirmed. Physicians warn that ATVs, kids can be a dangerous combination Ft. Myers Florida Weekly All-terrain vehicles and kids can be a dangerous mix, especially for those who tend to treat the ATVs like toys instead of high-powered vehicles. [4.24.09] Three years ago, Roger Queen was riding an all-terrain vehicle on a curvy mountain road in North Carolina when he lost control and fell over the ledge. He landed on his feet nearly 60 feet below the road, crushing his spinal cord and shattering his spine. Yamaha Motor Corp. Offers Free Repair For 450, 660, and 700 Model Rhino Vehicles U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif., is announcing a free repair program to address safety issues with all Rhino 450, 660, and 700 model off-highway recreational vehicles. Yamaha has also agreed to voluntarily suspend sale of these models immediately until repaired. Consumers should immediately stop using these popular recreational vehicles until the repair is installed by a dealer. CPSC staff has investigated more than 50 incidents involving these three Rhino models, including 46 driver and passenger deaths involving the Rhino 450 and 660 models. More than two-thirds of the cases involved rollovers and many involved unbelted occupants. Of the rollover-related deaths and hundreds of reported injuries, some of which were serious, many appear to involve turns at relatively low speeds and on level terrain. About 120,000 of the 450 and 660 model Rhinos have been distributed nationwide since Fall 2003. Some units have been equipped by Yamaha with half doors and additional passenger handholds, either before or after sale. [ read more ] [3.19.09] When Katie Tuminello was flung from a four-wheeler this summer, the crash caused so many injuries that she was flown by helicopter to a Baton Rouge hospital. [2.27.09] The safety defects of some Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), also called "Side-by-Side" vehicles, are causing a mounting toll of death and severe injury to users, warns a report issued today by a group of safety advocates and victims. The report calls for basic changes in the design of these rollover-prone off-road vehicles to substantially increase their ability to protect occupants in the event of rollover accidents. The report, entitled "Citizen Report on UTV Vehicle Hazards," has been submitted by victims of UTV rollovers, including the parents of children killed or injured in such accidents, as well as adult victims, the Trauma Foundation, and the Center for Auto Safety. News Reports Find Poor Design of Rhino Terrain Vehicles Linked to Serious Injuries and Deaths PPR Web South Florida law firm Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley PA (Searcy Denney) steps up its investigation into serious injuries and deaths tied to design defects in Yamaha Rhino® all terrain vehicles. The Rhino®, classified as a "utility terrain vehicle," is not subject to the same safety standards as other ATVs. [1.17.09] In December, a West Virginia mother pleaded not guilty to child neglect charges stemming from an all-terrain vehicle wreck in which her 2-year-old son was hurt. She ran off the road into a ditch, and the ATV flipped several times, according to police reports.
[2.28.09] After losing part of his leg in an ATV accident last year, a Brevard County teen is playing baseball once again. Dakota "Kody" Best, 13, took the mound Friday for his JV team at Florida Air Academy. [ read more ][2.27.09] It was an accident that nearly took the life of 8-year-old Cassidy Smith of Sanilac County. But the staff at Hurley Medical Center in Flint was able to save her life. [ read more ]CURRENT NEWS | 2008 ARCHIVE | 2007 ARCHIVE | 2005 ARCHIVE
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| NEWS STORIES Below are recent news stories about ATV safety. If you have seen any news stories or developments you think we should post, please contact us. [03.04.13] Deaths reported on all-terrain vehicles in 2011 decreased dramatically, according to a report out today from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The death toll of 327 reported for 2011 — the latest year available — could increase by hundreds when the commission receives more coroners' and other medical examiner reports. But it is the lowest early number of reported fatalities by far in recent years. [ read more ] [02.19.13] PGabe Lancaster, Osage native and research intern for Emergency Medicine at the University of IowaHospitals and Clinics, presented his concerns regarding the county's resolution on the usage of ATVs (all terrain vehicles) in the county at a recent board of supervisors meeting. Lancaster, along with Dr. Gerene Denning, Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, expressed his concern about ATVs being used on the road. [ read more ] [02.16.13] PITTSFIELD -- A 31-year-old Chicopee woman is facing criminal charges for allegedly allowing a then 15-year-old relative from Springfield to drive an all-terrain vehicle, ending in a crash in which both were hurt, the teen severely. Kimberly A. Philpott of Bostwick Lane is scheduled to be arraigned on six charges on March 11 in Central Berkshire District Court. She is facing a maximum of 21 years in jail or a $5,000 fine, or both, if convicted. [ read more ] [01.31.13] Jan. 31, 2013 — Children continue to account for a disproportionate percentage of morbidity and mortality from ATV-related accidents -- up 240 percent since 1997, according to a Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics report published by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [12.03.12] Another death involving a youngster and an all-terrain vehicle should serve as an undeniable and emphatic wake-up call for the public — and for the state legislature. We join state Sen. Bill Purcell, D.-Laurinburg, in calling for stricter ATV regulations to help prevent such tragedies. A 7-year-old Salisbury boy was killed in an ATV wreck on Nov. 22. [ read more ] [12.02.12] The death of 12-year-old Brittany Dawn Adkinson in an all-terrain vehicle accident Nov. 25 has sparked discussion about the safety of ATVs when operated by children. The crash, during which a 6-year-old was operating the adult-size ATV and injured Brittany's 9-year-old brother who was also on the vehicle, happened on private property. [ read more ] Rising number of ATV crashes causing injury, death sparks call for more training by users ELLETTSVILLE, Ind. — A deadly crash in Monroe County last weekend is calling attention to the dangers of all-terrain vehicles across the state. Twenty-five-year-old Daniel Cutshaw of Spencer became the 14th person in Indiana this year to die in an ATV crash. [ read more ] [10.28.12] 8:54PM EDT October 28. 2012 - Federal and state authorities are investigating allegations that the country's largest Honda power sports dealership sold unsafe motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes. [ read more ] [10.24.12] WEDNESDAY, Oct. 24 (HealthDay News) -- Less than 37 percent of children injured in an all-terrain vehicle crash were wearing a helmet, and nearly 60 percent of them were riding again within six months after being injured, according to a new study. [ read more ] [10.22.12] NEW ORLEANS – All-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufacturer warning labels aimed at children under age 16 are largely ineffective, and formal dealer-sponsored training is infrequently offered and deemed unnecessary by most young ATV users, according to new research presented at the Oct. 22 at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference and Exhibition in New Orleans. [ read more ] [09.05.12] I’ve written before about the use of ATVs in this province and the terrible attitudes many have about their use. Some users have their ATVs to facilitate hunting, getting firewood or working on their acreage. For those, the ATV is a seen as a tool. Unfortunately for many others it is a toy — a recreational vehicle for family enjoyment. [ read more ] [08.29.12] CALGARY — With off-road fanatics gearing up for the summer’s last long weekend, a physicians’ group has added its voice to the fight to toughen laws on ATV use. The Canadian Paediatric Society is calling for provinces to ban children under 16 years old from operating all-terrain vehicles. [ read more ] [08.23.12] Thousands of children are being seriously injured in all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents every year. In fact, the number of accidents and injuries has doubled in the last 10 years. Children are less likely to be riding ATVs compared with adults but they make up a full one-third of all injuries. And some of those accidents result in death. [ read more ] [07.18.12] THE Federal Government is poised to make roll-over protection on ATVs mandatory. In a major turn of events, Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten said the Government would intervene if manufacturers did not do something to curb the "unacceptably high" death rates and injuries associated with ATVs. Last year a record 23 people died following accidents involving ATVs. [ read more ] [06.28.12] WASHINGTON, June 28, 2020 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging ATV riders to stay safe on the trails and make 2012 the year that curbs the annual rise in deaths and injuries seen every summer. On average for 2004 to 2006, deaths of children aged 16 and younger rose about 65 percent from March to April. [ read more ] [06.27.12] Carolyn Anderson never knew her son was riding an ATV, until the call came to tell her that 14-year-old James had been in an accident and was being rushed to the hospital. “I screamed,” Anderson told TODAY. “It was like this primal scream. I intuitively just knew..." [ read more ] [05.24.12] Newswise — Many all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails officially open over Memorial Day weekend. Doctors with the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt are urging both adults and children to stay safe this riding season. Already this week in Middle Tennessee there have been multiple ATV accidents resulting in injuries and death. [ read more ] [05.20.12] Warm weather is here and school is winding down. For thousands of Indiana kids that means spending long days outside enjoying summer activities. One activity gaining in popularity involves riding All-Terrain Vehicles, commonly known as ATV's. [ read more ] [05.16.12] MADISON, Wis. - A string of fatal all-terrain vehicle crashes has Department of Natural Resources wardens and doctors urging people to get proper safety training. Each year, 40,000 children across the country are injured in ATV crashes. In Wisconsin, three people, including a child, have died in ATV crashes since April. [ read more ] [04.20.12] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their all-terrain vehicles (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [01.13.12] DALLAS - A young North Texas girl is in for a long recovery after an ATV accident. At 11 years old Baylee Littlefield doesn’t let anything get her down. But lately it has taken everything she’s got. “My life is not giving up. I never give up. I always try harder and hard every day to get better,” she said. But she admitted “sometimes it makes me sad.” [ read more ] [01.12.12] What weighs up to 800 pounds, travels up to 75 mph, and doesn’t require a license? Could be your family’s new ATV. If your kids are asking to drive it or to ride along, consider a New Year’s safety resolution. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, kids under age 16 account for 28% of ATV-related deaths. About 40,000 children under 16 land in hospital emergency rooms annually because of an ATV injury. [ read more ] [12.20.11] Washington, DC – According to data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2010. Tragically, however, at least 55 children lost their lives and 28,300 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [12.03.11] It seems like this has been a big year for ATV accidents and tragedies. Despite continued warnings about the dangers of ATVs and reports of severe injuries and deaths and new ATV safety laws, we continue to hear about ATV tragedies. The latest is a 16-year-old who died on Thanksgiving Day in Caswell County, North Carolina. He was riding with a 14-year-old passenger when their ATV rolled over while they were turning in an open field. [ read more ] [11.04.11] All terrain vehicles, used for off-road recreation especially in rural areas, are responsible for a significant number of pediatric injuries and deaths, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics’ advice that children under the age of 16 should not be using ATVs. The AAP’s position has been echoed by Consumer Reports coverage through the years as well. [ read more ] [10.04.11] The tragic quad-biking death of an 11-year-old boy from northwest Victoria on Monday takes the 2011 death toll from all terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents to 17. The boy reportedly died after his ATV overturned while he was herding cows. This accident shouldn’t have happened but it’s part of a growing trend of injury and deaths associated with these widely-used farming vehicles. [ read more ] [10.03.11] Thank you to The Sun's editorial board for highlighting the gaps in current Maryland laws regarding all-terrain vehicles ("The unregulated ATV," Sept. 26). Readers now know that Maryland doesn't require ATV drivers to pass a safety test, attend a safety course or possess a driver's license, and that there's no minimum age requirement or even a mandatory helmet law in our state. [ read more ] [8.31.11] When the Chief Coroner of Ontario speaks, people ought to listen. That's a bit of a no-brainer. The chief coroner's livelihood is death. This person understands death and its causes and moreover understands how to prevent death by accident or misadventure. Following the death of a 10-year-old boy in Northern Ontario, the coroner issued a reminder of the dangers ATVs pose to children, as well as a recommendation that no child under the age of 16 ride a full-size ATV. [ read more ] [8.25.11] As the summer season draws to an end, it is important to remain safe and try to avoid the summer “accidents” before the weather turns cooler and outdoor activities become more limited. Some of your patients’ parents may say, “Well, there is nothing you can do about it. Accidents just happen.” But that isn’t true. Accidents do not just happen. Unintentional injuries, such as the infectious diseases that once killed children, are predictable, preventable and controllable. [ read more ] [7.17.11] Nationwide, approximately 130 children younger than 16 years old die each year as a result of ATV-related injuries. Moreover, an estimated 40,000 children younger than 16 are seriously injured each year in ATV-related incidents. [ read more ] [7.29.11] The number of Canadians seriously hurt due to collisions involving all-terrain vehicles continues to mount. And that's got some people thinking the minimum age for driving ATVs should rise. According to a study released Thursday, 3,386 Canadians required hospitalization in 2009 because of ATV-related injuries, compared with 3,193 the previous year. Nearly 450 of the injuries involved kids age 14 and under. [ read more ] [6.17.11] Well, we’re into a new death season. The snowmobile one is over, and we’re now into the ATV death season. Over the last few decades, we’ve become wealthy enough to afford powerful, shiny machines to speed us to our graves. If you don’t think we’re a rich society, you’re just too recently born. [ read more ] [6.16.11] A 12-year-old near Hagerstown, in northwestern Maryland, died yesterday at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, a few days after the ATV he was riding on overturned in the driveway of his home. As many parents are aware, these types of ATV accidents and tragedies aren't rare. There were at least 16 deaths in Maryland associated with riding an ATV between 2007 and 2009 and 1,758 deaths nationally (including 216 children and teens) during the same time period. [ read more ] [5.31.11] EDMONTON — Alberta Health Services physicians are urging parents not to allow children under 16 to drive all-terrain vehicles because they are too dangerous. The government agency says emergency physicians at Edmonton's Stollery Children's Hospital have treated four children with severe ATV injuries this month, including two who died. [ read more ] [6.07.11] Summer has arrived in the north! It’s a time of increased outdoor activities and fun, but don’t let your fun turn into tragedy. Researchers estimate that 90 per cent of brain injuries are predictable and preventable. Damage to the brain can rarely be repaired and life after a brain injury is never the same. [ read more ] [5.26.11] BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) - Cranking up an ATV is a common way to get outdoors and spend time with family, but the number of children critically injured from ATV accidents in the Birmingham area is on the rise. The medical staff at Children's Hospital says they're seeing more and more children coming in with critical injuries from ATV accidents. Some kids as young as three years old. [ read more ] [5.22.11] Over lunch one sunny spring day, a fellow physician recounted a recent office visit with an active 8-year-old boy who had injured several fingers falling off a dirt bike. The child was going to be uncomfortable and inconvenienced for a little while, but was otherwise going to be OK. My colleague was still concerned, and was curious about the American Academy of Pediatrics' stand on the use of off-road motorized bikes and vehicles by children and teens. [ read more ] [5.07.11] It’s almost inconceivable that the RNC has to call a press conference to tell parents not to let their underage children ride ATVs. It’s understandable that the children look at the motorized machines and want to speed off with their friends ... but why any responsible parent would hand over the keys to them is mind-boggling. Every year there are deaths and serious injuries reported from incidents with these four-wheeled machines that have become ubiquitous in every corner of this province. [ read more ] [4.03.11] Six year old Jay Thomas Patton reportedly died after a four-wheeler accident in Collinsville in February. According to authorities: the kindergartener was wearing a helmet and safety gear, and was under adult supervision, but simply rounded a turn too quickly, flipped the four-wheeler, and landed awkwardly. About thirty eight children in Alabama have been killed in ATV related accidents over the last seven years and even non-fatal accidents can be very serious, according to Dr. Kathy Monroe, E.R. Physician at Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [5.13.11] Eight years ago Pam and Steve Saylor dropped their son Chandler off at a friend's "swimming" birthday party. At some point during the party a decision was made to allow the boys at the party to ride ATVs (all terrain vehicles). It was a decision that would forever change the lives of the Saylors - and one that would end Chandler's life. What many don't know about Chandler's accident is that he died trying to avoid hitting another boy. And, if you've ever had the privilege of meeting the Saylors, it's not hard to see where this selfless act came from. [ read more ] [5.09.11] Less than two weeks ago on Bravo television, The Real Housewives of New York City took a risky ride on a couple of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). In a scene that lasted for less than 45 seconds, the characters managed to misuse the vehicles in numerous ways. They—and worse, their children—were at a greater risk of injury and potentially death because they lacked helmets, rode tandem and allowed children to drive and ride two abreast as passengers behind the driver. [ read more ] [4.01.11] ROSEMONT, Ill., April 1, 2020 -- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were introduced in this country in the 1970s. Currently, there are approximately 9.5 million ATVs in use and more than 150,000 reported ATV-related injuries in this country annually. The rapid rise in ATV-related injuries is due to increased use and also to the production of larger, faster, and more powerful vehicles, according to a review article that was recently published in the April issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS). [ read more ] [3.14.11] An ATV accident near Lake Texoma, Oklahoma, a popular spring break vacation spot, again highlights how tragedies can happen when kids are allowed to operate ATVs. A nine-year-old girl died when the ATV she was driving flipped over, also injuring an eight-year-old passenger on the ATV. Although the American Academy of Pediatrics has long supported laws that 'prohibit the use of ATVs, on- or off-road, by children and adolescents younger than 16 years,' the ATV laws in Oklahoma are still rather weak. [ read more ] [3.02.11] There is a significant risk of morbidity for children who sustain spinal cord injuries from All-terrain vehicle accidents, according to recent research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting in San Diego. The study examined 52 spine injuries among 29 patients with a mean age of 15.8 years. Fourty-five percent of the patients sustained multiple spine injuries. [ read more ] [2.22.11] It would be wonderful if all parents were so committed to their children's well-being that laws requiring them to attend school were unnecessary. It would be wonderful if all parents kept up with their children's health needs and didn't need the law to make them vaccinate their children for public school. But not everyone does right by children without being instructed by the law. [ read more ] [2.13.11] WEATHERFORD — Mackina Dobrinski woke up, spread eagle in a tree with her back pinned down by a four-wheeler. Her friend, Keirra, pulled the vehicle from Mackina’s back, worked the girl out of the tree and onto the ground. “I can’t feel my legs!” Mackina said. Moments earlier, the 14-year-old and Keirra had hopped on the all-terrain vehicle to take advantage of that sunny May morning. [ read more ] [1.07.11] HOUSTON—A Houston mother was charged with child endangerment after police said she took her two young children out on a four-wheeler and crashed the vehicle. According to investigators, Nelli Palucho, 20, took her 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son out on her ATV on December 3, 2020. [ read more ] [12.22.10] Although the numbers look promising with respect to the small decline of fatalities to children under age 16, it is important to note that these numbers are only ESTIMATES and once all the data is collected they will eventually climb again. The report for 2008 stated there were an estimated 74 deaths of children younger than 16. [ read more ] [11.18.10] BOSTON, MASS – In September, Massachusetts passed the toughest ATV law in the nation, becoming the first state to ban All-Terrain Vehicle use for children 14 years and younger. In October, researchers for the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health announced the results of a study showing that ATVs were responsible for significant and rising hospitalizations of children 18 and younger. [ read more ] [10.28.10] More children are racing ATVs, sometimes with disastrous consequences. [ watch video ] [10.15.10] All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, can be heard buzzing through woods and fields across America all summer long, as outdoor enthusiasts from seven to 70 enjoy getting close to nature on the three and four-wheel machines. More than half a million are sold in the U.S. each year, and they've also become popular vacation rentals. But the thrill of the ride can come at a heavy price. Since federal officials began tracking deaths from ATV crashes in the 1980s, more than 10,000 people have died. [ read more ] [ photo gallery ] [10.12.10] All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are associated with a significant and increasing number of hospitalizations for children in the U.S., according to a new report by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Over a nine- year period (1997-2006) hospitalizations for ATV injuries increased 150 percent among youth younger than 18 years, with important demographic variations. Rates increased the most dramatically in the South and Midwest, and among teens ages 15 to 17. [ read more ] [10.06.10] WASHINGTON, DC — If you think an all-terrain vehicle, or ATV, is safer than a motorcycle, think again. People are far more likely to die after ATV accidents than after motorcycle accidents, trauma surgeons and public health researchers said today at the annual meeting of the American College of Surgeons. They had information from a national trauma bank on nearly 60,000 accidents that occurred between 2002 and 2006 (13,749 from off-road motorcycle riding and 44,509 from ATV mishaps). [ read more ] [10.05.10] Doctors are seeing more people with brain and spinal cord injuries related to ATV use, and many of the injured are youngsters, according to a new study published in the October issue of Neurosurgery, the official journal of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. The researchers say there were about 1,117,000 emergency room visits and 495 deaths due to ATV injuries nationwide in 2001, increases of 211 percent and 159 percent respectively from 1993. They estimate national costs of ATV-associated injuries are $3.24 billion a year. . [ read more ] [09.03.10] Notice to the tens of thousands of Massachusetts families with All-Terrain Vehicles: If you were ever foolhardy enough to let children ride your ATV, those days are over. Amid the flurry of bills passed at the end of July was one that, as of Oct. 1, makes Massachusetts the first state in the nation to declare ATVs off-limits to children under 14, the bill’s backers say. [ read more ] [08.29.10] SUMMERVILLE -- As Kayla Beczynski got ready to return to school this year, her biggest concern was what other students at Summerville High would think of her. Kayla had been out of school since May 2009, when an all-terrain-vehicle wreck left her paralyzed and battling for her life. In the months that followed, she endured endless surgeries, therapies and evaluations as she fought her way back. [ read more ] [08.01.10] New legislation putting serious restrictions on all-terrain-vehicle riding is garnering praise from parents whose children have been injured or killed on these three- and four-wheeled off-road vehicles, and criticism from ATV enthusiasts. [ read more ] [08.23.10] A Louisiana woman and a teenage boy from Washington state are dead following two separate Yamaha Rhino ATV accidents that occurred over the weekend in two different states. Years after safety problems with the Yamaha Rhino side-by-side off-road vehicle were identified, riders and passengers continue to die and suffer serious injuries in rollover accidents with the ATV. [ read more ] [07.31.10] BOSTON - Saturday, July 31, 2020- Governor Deval Patrick today signed into law a bill aimed at increasing the safety of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding and heightening the protection of natural resources on public and private lands used by OHVs by raising the minimum age requirement for OHV riding and increasing penalties for illegal riding.
[07.21.10] Oklahoma is a recreational enthusiast's paradise, with offerings ranging from lakes and rivers to woodlands, mountains and trails. Among outdoor activities growing in popularity is the use of all-terrain vehicles in unpopulated areas. The vehicles look like a lot of fun to ride, but sadly, for hundreds of Oklahoma families, they will mean tragedy. [ read more ] [06.14.10] It's peak season for many outdoor sports, including all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding. As millions of riders hit the trails, there are renewed warnings about the safety of ATVs. "Early Show" Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen cited the Consumer Product Safety Commission, saying in the month of April alone there were 40 deaths on ATVs, 12 of them were children under 16. In May, 13 children were killed. [ watch video ] [06.10.10] In a bipartisan bid to save kids’ from battered brains and busted bones, the House voted yesterday to hike the state’s minimum age for operating an all-terrain vehicle from 10 to 14. Following the trail blazed by the Senate in January, state Rep. Peter J. Koutoujian (D-Waltham) said “Sean’s Bill” - named in honor of 8-year-old Sean Kearney of Plymouth, who was crushed to death by an ATV in 2006 while on a playdate - passed 141-12. [ read more ] [05.28.10] WASHINGTON, May 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) riders to take precautions to stay safe this holiday weekend and riding season. For the 4-day period surrounding the 2009 Memorial Day holiday, CPSC is aware of 27 fatalities, with two under the age of 16, averaging almost seven deaths a day. [ read more ] [05.27.10] Toronto, Ontario – All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are powerful machines that are beyond the skill level of children and youth, according to brain and spinal cord injury prevention association ThinkFirst Canada, which is warning parents not to teach their children to ride them. [ read more ] [05.25.10] In late January, the Massachusetts Senate passed a bill that would have improved safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). But the House has yet to act on it. Considering the growing popularity of dirt bikes on Cape Cod and the Islands, our legislative delegation needs to convince the leadership to push this legislation to the floor for a vote. [ read more ] [04.14.10] The mother of a 12-year-old boy killed while riding an all terrain vehicle nearly three years ago is now calling for an all-out ban on the machine for young children. The woman's message comes as a fatality inquiry into her son's death emerges. Kirkland Gour died in 2007 after his ATV flipped near the family's home in Nampa, Alta. [ read more ] [04.08.10] Makers of all-terrain vehicles promised to monitor dealers to prevent the sale of powerful adult model ATVs to kids under 16. But an undercover investigation by the Government Accounting Office suggests self-policing isn’t working. [ read more ] [03.23.10] Larry Foreman is “a libertarian at heart,” but not when it comes to kids. A veteran emergency room physician — he works at the closest ER to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area in San Luis Obispo County, California — he’s seen an endless queue of injured riders of all-terrain vehicles, including children as young as 4. Eventually, Foreman had enough and began speaking out about kids and ATVs. [ read more ] [03.11.10] Two new studies report a high rate of severe injuries -- including amputations, spinal injuries and even death -- among children who ride all-terrain vehicles. "A spine injury is such a devastating injury for a young person," said Dr. Jeffrey R. Sawyer, an assistant professor of orthopaedics with the Campbell Clinic at the University of Tennessee, and a co-author on both papers. [ read more ] [03.09.10] Q: My 12-year-old son has been begging for one of those four-wheel ATVs (all terrain vehicles). I am very worried; how safe are these? A: The statistics for the estimated 2 million or so children under 16 years old who ride ATVs are concerning. Over 100,000 kids are injured every year while riding an ATV, with 40,000 requiring a visit to the emergency room due to the severity of their injuries. [ read more ] [03.08.10] Every time Dr. Shannon Smith hears of a child being injured or killed in an ATV accident she’s more convinced that Mississippi needs a tougher ATV safety law. That’s one of the reason’s Smith, a pediatric rehab physician at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, has written letters and called members of the Mississippi Legislature to encourage tougher ATV safety laws. [ read more ] 02.01.10] Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) announced recently that the Senate has passed legislation improving safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in Massachusetts. The bill requires ATVs, off-road motorcycles and snowmobiles to be registered and all operators to wear helmets. It also establishes a minimum age of use for ATVs. [ read more ] [01.28.10] Data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) show child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2008. However, at least 74 children lost their lives and more than 37,000 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [ read more ] [12.18.09] State Rep. Dannie Reed, R-Ackerman, plans to introduce legislation to require safe practices and encourage safety education for all-terrain vehicle use. Reed issued a statement Thursday warning that ATV use is killing and injuring drivers and passengers more than hazards than normally dealt with in the state. [ read more ] [11.23.09] For parents wanting to provide their children some good, clean off-roading fun, the Fushin, a smaller-than-normal all-terrain vehicle, seemed just the thing. Except the Chinese import with jaunty yellow
paint and a low $250 price tag was missing one feature: front brakes. [10.24.09] On a warm Alberta summer's night in 2004, Ted Bosse received the news that would change his and his wife Teresa's lives forever. The all terrain vehicle their son Chris had been riding flipped, leaving him lying critically injured on the road. By the time that Ted Bosse got to his son, it
was clear that Chris wasn't going to survive. His father held him
but he was already gone. Chris was sober and an experienced ATV
driver. The road he was driving on was flat. [8.21.09] Last Friday night outside Williamsport, two 18-year-olds driving two all-terrain vehicles crashed head-on in a field. The boys, 2009 graduates of Jersey Shore High School, died of their injuries. A 14-year-old passenger was critically injured. Not one was wearing a helmet. [8.10.09] A 3-year-old girl died Saturday evening when the ATV her 8-year-old brother was driving crashed and rolled over on her, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office said in a news release. The boy suffered facial injuries, authorities said; the children's 10-year-old sister who also was on the vehicle escaped harm. [8.4.09] It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Keep kids safe when riding ATVs by following important safety rules It happened to an 11 year-old boy riding with his uncle. It happened to a 12 year-old boy wearing a helmet. It happened to a two year-old boy riding with his dad. It happened to a 16 year-old boy riding with a 13 year-old girl. And it happened to a six year-old girl riding with her stepsister. And they aren't the only ones. Trendy Off - Road Vehicle Poses Deadly Risk It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Children should not ride, drive ATVs Many families associate fun in the sun with riding three and four-wheel vehicles. All Terrain Vehicles Are 'Not a Toy' Says Michigan Accident Attorney Terry Cochran Misguided parents, wanting their children to have a good time, will buy an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) for family recreation only to have a loved one end up in the emergency room - possibly injured for life or worse. It's time to reduce the West's ATV carnage At least 24 people have been killed in all-terrain-vehicle accidents in the West since mid-March, the onset of warm riding weather. A 9-year-old girl in Arizona was among them. So were a 10-year-old boy in California, an off-duty sheriff's deputy in Utah, and 16-year-old girls in Wyoming and Arizona. [ read more ] All-Terrain Vehicles Potentially Lethal All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are potentially lethal and have the capacity to inflict serious harm, a study of injuries to children has confirmed. Physicians warn that ATVs, kids can be a dangerous combination Ft. Myers Florida Weekly All-terrain vehicles and kids can be a dangerous mix, especially for those who tend to treat the ATVs like toys instead of high-powered vehicles. [4.24.09] Three years ago, Roger Queen was riding an all-terrain vehicle on a curvy mountain road in North Carolina when he lost control and fell over the ledge. He landed on his feet nearly 60 feet below the road, crushing his spinal cord and shattering his spine. Yamaha Motor Corp. Offers Free Repair For 450, 660, and 700 Model Rhino Vehicles U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif., is announcing a free repair program to address safety issues with all Rhino 450, 660, and 700 model off-highway recreational vehicles. Yamaha has also agreed to voluntarily suspend sale of these models immediately until repaired. Consumers should immediately stop using these popular recreational vehicles until the repair is installed by a dealer. CPSC staff has investigated more than 50 incidents involving these three Rhino models, including 46 driver and passenger deaths involving the Rhino 450 and 660 models. More than two-thirds of the cases involved rollovers and many involved unbelted occupants. Of the rollover-related deaths and hundreds of reported injuries, some of which were serious, many appear to involve turns at relatively low speeds and on level terrain. About 120,000 of the 450 and 660 model Rhinos have been distributed nationwide since Fall 2003. Some units have been equipped by Yamaha with half doors and additional passenger handholds, either before or after sale. [ read more ] [3.19.09] When Katie Tuminello was flung from a four-wheeler this summer, the crash caused so many injuries that she was flown by helicopter to a Baton Rouge hospital. [2.27.09] The safety defects of some Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), also called "Side-by-Side" vehicles, are causing a mounting toll of death and severe injury to users, warns a report issued today by a group of safety advocates and victims. The report calls for basic changes in the design of these rollover-prone off-road vehicles to substantially increase their ability to protect occupants in the event of rollover accidents. The report, entitled "Citizen Report on UTV Vehicle Hazards," has been submitted by victims of UTV rollovers, including the parents of children killed or injured in such accidents, as well as adult victims, the Trauma Foundation, and the Center for Auto Safety. News Reports Find Poor Design of Rhino Terrain Vehicles Linked to Serious Injuries and Deaths PPR Web South Florida law firm Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley PA (Searcy Denney) steps up its investigation into serious injuries and deaths tied to design defects in Yamaha Rhino® all terrain vehicles. The Rhino®, classified as a "utility terrain vehicle," is not subject to the same safety standards as other ATVs. [1.17.09] In December, a West Virginia mother pleaded not guilty to child neglect charges stemming from an all-terrain vehicle wreck in which her 2-year-old son was hurt. She ran off the road into a ditch, and the ATV flipped several times, according to police reports.
[2.28.09] After losing part of his leg in an ATV accident last year, a Brevard County teen is playing baseball once again. Dakota "Kody" Best, 13, took the mound Friday for his JV team at Florida Air Academy. [ read more ][2.27.09] It was an accident that nearly took the life of 8-year-old Cassidy Smith of Sanilac County. But the staff at Hurley Medical Center in Flint was able to save her life. [ read more ]CURRENT NEWS | 2008 ARCHIVE | 2007 ARCHIVE | 2005 ARCHIVE
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NEWS STORIES Below are recent news stories about ATV safety. If you have seen any news stories or developments you think we should post, please contact us. [02.16.13] PITTSFIELD -- A 31-year-old Chicopee woman is facing criminal charges for allegedly allowing a then 15-year-old relative from Springfield to drive an all-terrain vehicle, ending in a crash in which both were hurt, the teen severely. Kimberly A. Philpott of Bostwick Lane is scheduled to be arraigned on six charges on March 11 in Central Berkshire District Court. She is facing a maximum of 21 years in jail or a $5,000 fine, or both, if convicted. [ read more ]
[01.31.13] Jan. 31, 2013 — Children continue to account for a disproportionate percentage of morbidity and mortality from ATV-related accidents -- up 240 percent since 1997, according to a Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics report published by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [12.03.12] Another death involving a youngster and an all-terrain vehicle should serve as an undeniable and emphatic wake-up call for the public — and for the state legislature. We join state Sen. Bill Purcell, D.-Laurinburg, in calling for stricter ATV regulations to help prevent such tragedies. A 7-year-old Salisbury boy was killed in an ATV wreck on Nov. 22. [ read more ] [12.02.12] The death of 12-year-old Brittany Dawn Adkinson in an all-terrain vehicle accident Nov. 25 has sparked discussion about the safety of ATVs when operated by children. The crash, during which a 6-year-old was operating the adult-size ATV and injured Brittany's 9-year-old brother who was also on the vehicle, happened on private property. [ read more ] Rising number of ATV crashes causing injury, death sparks call for more training by users ELLETTSVILLE, Ind. — A deadly crash in Monroe County last weekend is calling attention to the dangers of all-terrain vehicles across the state. Twenty-five-year-old Daniel Cutshaw of Spencer became the 14th person in Indiana this year to die in an ATV crash. [ read more ] [10.28.12] 8:54PM EDT October 28. 2012 - Federal and state authorities are investigating allegations that the country's largest Honda power sports dealership sold unsafe motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes. [ read more ] [10.24.12] WEDNESDAY, Oct. 24 (HealthDay News) -- Less than 37 percent of children injured in an all-terrain vehicle crash were wearing a helmet, and nearly 60 percent of them were riding again within six months after being injured, according to a new study. [ read more ] [10.22.12] NEW ORLEANS – All-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufacturer warning labels aimed at children under age 16 are largely ineffective, and formal dealer-sponsored training is infrequently offered and deemed unnecessary by most young ATV users, according to new research presented at the Oct. 22 at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference and Exhibition in New Orleans. [ read more ] [09.05.12] I’ve written before about the use of ATVs in this province and the terrible attitudes many have about their use. Some users have their ATVs to facilitate hunting, getting firewood or working on their acreage. For those, the ATV is a seen as a tool. Unfortunately for many others it is a toy — a recreational vehicle for family enjoyment. [ read more ] [08.29.12] CALGARY — With off-road fanatics gearing up for the summer’s last long weekend, a physicians’ group has added its voice to the fight to toughen laws on ATV use. The Canadian Paediatric Society is calling for provinces to ban children under 16 years old from operating all-terrain vehicles. [ read more ] [08.23.12] Thousands of children are being seriously injured in all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents every year. In fact, the number of accidents and injuries has doubled in the last 10 years. Children are less likely to be riding ATVs compared with adults but they make up a full one-third of all injuries. And some of those accidents result in death. [ read more ] [07.18.12] THE Federal Government is poised to make roll-over protection on ATVs mandatory. In a major turn of events, Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten said the Government would intervene if manufacturers did not do something to curb the "unacceptably high" death rates and injuries associated with ATVs. Last year a record 23 people died following accidents involving ATVs. [ read more ] [06.28.12] WASHINGTON, June 28, 2020 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging ATV riders to stay safe on the trails and make 2012 the year that curbs the annual rise in deaths and injuries seen every summer. On average for 2004 to 2006, deaths of children aged 16 and younger rose about 65 percent from March to April. [ read more ] [06.27.12] Carolyn Anderson never knew her son was riding an ATV, until the call came to tell her that 14-year-old James had been in an accident and was being rushed to the hospital. “I screamed,” Anderson told TODAY. “It was like this primal scream. I intuitively just knew..." [ read more ] [05.24.12] Newswise — Many all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails officially open over Memorial Day weekend. Doctors with the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt are urging both adults and children to stay safe this riding season. Already this week in Middle Tennessee there have been multiple ATV accidents resulting in injuries and death. [ read more ] [05.20.12] Warm weather is here and school is winding down. For thousands of Indiana kids that means spending long days outside enjoying summer activities. One activity gaining in popularity involves riding All-Terrain Vehicles, commonly known as ATV's. [ read more ] [05.16.12] MADISON, Wis. - A string of fatal all-terrain vehicle crashes has Department of Natural Resources wardens and doctors urging people to get proper safety training. Each year, 40,000 children across the country are injured in ATV crashes. In Wisconsin, three people, including a child, have died in ATV crashes since April. [ read more ] [04.20.12] As we approach summer, many people are now starting to drive their all-terrain vehicles (ATV). I thought it would be a good time to discuss ATV safety, particularly among children and youth. Below are some ATV-related facts compiled and adapted from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society. [ read more ] [01.13.12] DALLAS - A young North Texas girl is in for a long recovery after an ATV accident. At 11 years old Baylee Littlefield doesn’t let anything get her down. But lately it has taken everything she’s got. “My life is not giving up. I never give up. I always try harder and hard every day to get better,” she said. But she admitted “sometimes it makes me sad.” [ read more ] [01.12.12] What weighs up to 800 pounds, travels up to 75 mph, and doesn’t require a license? Could be your family’s new ATV. If your kids are asking to drive it or to ride along, consider a New Year’s safety resolution. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, kids under age 16 account for 28% of ATV-related deaths. About 40,000 children under 16 land in hospital emergency rooms annually because of an ATV injury. [ read more ] [12.20.11] Washington, DC – According to data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2010. Tragically, however, at least 55 children lost their lives and 28,300 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [12.03.11] It seems like this has been a big year for ATV accidents and tragedies. Despite continued warnings about the dangers of ATVs and reports of severe injuries and deaths and new ATV safety laws, we continue to hear about ATV tragedies. The latest is a 16-year-old who died on Thanksgiving Day in Caswell County, North Carolina. He was riding with a 14-year-old passenger when their ATV rolled over while they were turning in an open field. [ read more ] [11.04.11] All terrain vehicles, used for off-road recreation especially in rural areas, are responsible for a significant number of pediatric injuries and deaths, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics’ advice that children under the age of 16 should not be using ATVs. The AAP’s position has been echoed by Consumer Reports coverage through the years as well. [ read more ] [10.04.11] The tragic quad-biking death of an 11-year-old boy from northwest Victoria on Monday takes the 2011 death toll from all terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents to 17. The boy reportedly died after his ATV overturned while he was herding cows. This accident shouldn’t have happened but it’s part of a growing trend of injury and deaths associated with these widely-used farming vehicles. [ read more ] [10.03.11] Thank you to The Sun's editorial board for highlighting the gaps in current Maryland laws regarding all-terrain vehicles ("The unregulated ATV," Sept. 26). Readers now know that Maryland doesn't require ATV drivers to pass a safety test, attend a safety course or possess a driver's license, and that there's no minimum age requirement or even a mandatory helmet law in our state. [ read more ] [8.31.11] When the Chief Coroner of Ontario speaks, people ought to listen. That's a bit of a no-brainer. The chief coroner's livelihood is death. This person understands death and its causes and moreover understands how to prevent death by accident or misadventure. Following the death of a 10-year-old boy in Northern Ontario, the coroner issued a reminder of the dangers ATVs pose to children, as well as a recommendation that no child under the age of 16 ride a full-size ATV. [ read more ] [8.25.11] As the summer season draws to an end, it is important to remain safe and try to avoid the summer “accidents” before the weather turns cooler and outdoor activities become more limited. Some of your patients’ parents may say, “Well, there is nothing you can do about it. Accidents just happen.” But that isn’t true. Accidents do not just happen. Unintentional injuries, such as the infectious diseases that once killed children, are predictable, preventable and controllable. [ read more ] [7.17.11] Nationwide, approximately 130 children younger than 16 years old die each year as a result of ATV-related injuries. Moreover, an estimated 40,000 children younger than 16 are seriously injured each year in ATV-related incidents. [ read more ] [7.29.11] The number of Canadians seriously hurt due to collisions involving all-terrain vehicles continues to mount. And that's got some people thinking the minimum age for driving ATVs should rise. According to a study released Thursday, 3,386 Canadians required hospitalization in 2009 because of ATV-related injuries, compared with 3,193 the previous year. Nearly 450 of the injuries involved kids age 14 and under. [ read more ] [6.17.11] Well, we’re into a new death season. The snowmobile one is over, and we’re now into the ATV death season. Over the last few decades, we’ve become wealthy enough to afford powerful, shiny machines to speed us to our graves. If you don’t think we’re a rich society, you’re just too recently born. [ read more ] [6.16.11] A 12-year-old near Hagerstown, in northwestern Maryland, died yesterday at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, a few days after the ATV he was riding on overturned in the driveway of his home. As many parents are aware, these types of ATV accidents and tragedies aren't rare. There were at least 16 deaths in Maryland associated with riding an ATV between 2007 and 2009 and 1,758 deaths nationally (including 216 children and teens) during the same time period. [ read more ] [5.31.11] EDMONTON — Alberta Health Services physicians are urging parents not to allow children under 16 to drive all-terrain vehicles because they are too dangerous. The government agency says emergency physicians at Edmonton's Stollery Children's Hospital have treated four children with severe ATV injuries this month, including two who died. [ read more ] [6.07.11] Summer has arrived in the north! It’s a time of increased outdoor activities and fun, but don’t let your fun turn into tragedy. Researchers estimate that 90 per cent of brain injuries are predictable and preventable. Damage to the brain can rarely be repaired and life after a brain injury is never the same. [ read more ] [5.26.11] BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) - Cranking up an ATV is a common way to get outdoors and spend time with family, but the number of children critically injured from ATV accidents in the Birmingham area is on the rise. The medical staff at Children's Hospital says they're seeing more and more children coming in with critical injuries from ATV accidents. Some kids as young as three years old. [ read more ] [5.22.11] Over lunch one sunny spring day, a fellow physician recounted a recent office visit with an active 8-year-old boy who had injured several fingers falling off a dirt bike. The child was going to be uncomfortable and inconvenienced for a little while, but was otherwise going to be OK. My colleague was still concerned, and was curious about the American Academy of Pediatrics' stand on the use of off-road motorized bikes and vehicles by children and teens. [ read more ] [5.07.11] It’s almost inconceivable that the RNC has to call a press conference to tell parents not to let their underage children ride ATVs. It’s understandable that the children look at the motorized machines and want to speed off with their friends ... but why any responsible parent would hand over the keys to them is mind-boggling. Every year there are deaths and serious injuries reported from incidents with these four-wheeled machines that have become ubiquitous in every corner of this province. [ read more ] [4.03.11] Six year old Jay Thomas Patton reportedly died after a four-wheeler accident in Collinsville in February. According to authorities: the kindergartener was wearing a helmet and safety gear, and was under adult supervision, but simply rounded a turn too quickly, flipped the four-wheeler, and landed awkwardly. About thirty eight children in Alabama have been killed in ATV related accidents over the last seven years and even non-fatal accidents can be very serious, according to Dr. Kathy Monroe, E.R. Physician at Children's Hospital. [ read more ] [5.13.11] Eight years ago Pam and Steve Saylor dropped their son Chandler off at a friend's "swimming" birthday party. At some point during the party a decision was made to allow the boys at the party to ride ATVs (all terrain vehicles). It was a decision that would forever change the lives of the Saylors - and one that would end Chandler's life. What many don't know about Chandler's accident is that he died trying to avoid hitting another boy. And, if you've ever had the privilege of meeting the Saylors, it's not hard to see where this selfless act came from. [ read more ] [5.09.11] Less than two weeks ago on Bravo television, The Real Housewives of New York City took a risky ride on a couple of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). In a scene that lasted for less than 45 seconds, the characters managed to misuse the vehicles in numerous ways. They—and worse, their children—were at a greater risk of injury and potentially death because they lacked helmets, rode tandem and allowed children to drive and ride two abreast as passengers behind the driver. [ read more ] [4.01.11] ROSEMONT, Ill., April 1, 2020 -- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were introduced in this country in the 1970s. Currently, there are approximately 9.5 million ATVs in use and more than 150,000 reported ATV-related injuries in this country annually. The rapid rise in ATV-related injuries is due to increased use and also to the production of larger, faster, and more powerful vehicles, according to a review article that was recently published in the April issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS). [ read more ] [3.14.11] An ATV accident near Lake Texoma, Oklahoma, a popular spring break vacation spot, again highlights how tragedies can happen when kids are allowed to operate ATVs. A nine-year-old girl died when the ATV she was driving flipped over, also injuring an eight-year-old passenger on the ATV. Although the American Academy of Pediatrics has long supported laws that 'prohibit the use of ATVs, on- or off-road, by children and adolescents younger than 16 years,' the ATV laws in Oklahoma are still rather weak. [ read more ] [3.02.11] There is a significant risk of morbidity for children who sustain spinal cord injuries from All-terrain vehicle accidents, according to recent research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting in San Diego. The study examined 52 spine injuries among 29 patients with a mean age of 15.8 years. Fourty-five percent of the patients sustained multiple spine injuries. [ read more ] [2.22.11] It would be wonderful if all parents were so committed to their children's well-being that laws requiring them to attend school were unnecessary. It would be wonderful if all parents kept up with their children's health needs and didn't need the law to make them vaccinate their children for public school. But not everyone does right by children without being instructed by the law. [ read more ] [2.13.11] WEATHERFORD — Mackina Dobrinski woke up, spread eagle in a tree with her back pinned down by a four-wheeler. Her friend, Keirra, pulled the vehicle from Mackina’s back, worked the girl out of the tree and onto the ground. “I can’t feel my legs!” Mackina said. Moments earlier, the 14-year-old and Keirra had hopped on the all-terrain vehicle to take advantage of that sunny May morning. [ read more ] [1.07.11] HOUSTON—A Houston mother was charged with child endangerment after police said she took her two young children out on a four-wheeler and crashed the vehicle. According to investigators, Nelli Palucho, 20, took her 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son out on her ATV on December 3, 2020. [ read more ] [12.22.10] Although the numbers look promising with respect to the small decline of fatalities to children under age 16, it is important to note that these numbers are only ESTIMATES and once all the data is collected they will eventually climb again. The report for 2008 stated there were an estimated 74 deaths of children younger than 16. [ read more ] [11.18.10] BOSTON, MASS – In September, Massachusetts passed the toughest ATV law in the nation, becoming the first state to ban All-Terrain Vehicle use for children 14 years and younger. In October, researchers for the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health announced the results of a study showing that ATVs were responsible for significant and rising hospitalizations of children 18 and younger. [ read more ] [10.28.10] More children are racing ATVs, sometimes with disastrous consequences. [ watch video ] [10.15.10] All-Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, can be heard buzzing through woods and fields across America all summer long, as outdoor enthusiasts from seven to 70 enjoy getting close to nature on the three and four-wheel machines. More than half a million are sold in the U.S. each year, and they've also become popular vacation rentals. But the thrill of the ride can come at a heavy price. Since federal officials began tracking deaths from ATV crashes in the 1980s, more than 10,000 people have died. [ read more ] [ photo gallery ] [10.12.10] All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are associated with a significant and increasing number of hospitalizations for children in the U.S., according to a new report by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Over a nine- year period (1997-2006) hospitalizations for ATV injuries increased 150 percent among youth younger than 18 years, with important demographic variations. Rates increased the most dramatically in the South and Midwest, and among teens ages 15 to 17. [ read more ] [10.06.10] WASHINGTON, DC — If you think an all-terrain vehicle, or ATV, is safer than a motorcycle, think again. People are far more likely to die after ATV accidents than after motorcycle accidents, trauma surgeons and public health researchers said today at the annual meeting of the American College of Surgeons. They had information from a national trauma bank on nearly 60,000 accidents that occurred between 2002 and 2006 (13,749 from off-road motorcycle riding and 44,509 from ATV mishaps). [ read more ] [10.05.10] Doctors are seeing more people with brain and spinal cord injuries related to ATV use, and many of the injured are youngsters, according to a new study published in the October issue of Neurosurgery, the official journal of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. The researchers say there were about 1,117,000 emergency room visits and 495 deaths due to ATV injuries nationwide in 2001, increases of 211 percent and 159 percent respectively from 1993. They estimate national costs of ATV-associated injuries are $3.24 billion a year. . [ read more ] [09.03.10] Notice to the tens of thousands of Massachusetts families with All-Terrain Vehicles: If you were ever foolhardy enough to let children ride your ATV, those days are over. Amid the flurry of bills passed at the end of July was one that, as of Oct. 1, makes Massachusetts the first state in the nation to declare ATVs off-limits to children under 14, the bill’s backers say. [ read more ] [08.29.10] SUMMERVILLE -- As Kayla Beczynski got ready to return to school this year, her biggest concern was what other students at Summerville High would think of her. Kayla had been out of school since May 2009, when an all-terrain-vehicle wreck left her paralyzed and battling for her life. In the months that followed, she endured endless surgeries, therapies and evaluations as she fought her way back. [ read more ] [08.01.10] New legislation putting serious restrictions on all-terrain-vehicle riding is garnering praise from parents whose children have been injured or killed on these three- and four-wheeled off-road vehicles, and criticism from ATV enthusiasts. [ read more ] [08.23.10] A Louisiana woman and a teenage boy from Washington state are dead following two separate Yamaha Rhino ATV accidents that occurred over the weekend in two different states. Years after safety problems with the Yamaha Rhino side-by-side off-road vehicle were identified, riders and passengers continue to die and suffer serious injuries in rollover accidents with the ATV. [ read more ] [07.31.10] BOSTON - Saturday, July 31, 2020- Governor Deval Patrick today signed into law a bill aimed at increasing the safety of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding and heightening the protection of natural resources on public and private lands used by OHVs by raising the minimum age requirement for OHV riding and increasing penalties for illegal riding.
[07.21.10] Oklahoma is a recreational enthusiast's paradise, with offerings ranging from lakes and rivers to woodlands, mountains and trails. Among outdoor activities growing in popularity is the use of all-terrain vehicles in unpopulated areas. The vehicles look like a lot of fun to ride, but sadly, for hundreds of Oklahoma families, they will mean tragedy. [ read more ] [06.14.10] It's peak season for many outdoor sports, including all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding. As millions of riders hit the trails, there are renewed warnings about the safety of ATVs. "Early Show" Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen cited the Consumer Product Safety Commission, saying in the month of April alone there were 40 deaths on ATVs, 12 of them were children under 16. In May, 13 children were killed. [ watch video ] [06.10.10] In a bipartisan bid to save kids’ from battered brains and busted bones, the House voted yesterday to hike the state’s minimum age for operating an all-terrain vehicle from 10 to 14. Following the trail blazed by the Senate in January, state Rep. Peter J. Koutoujian (D-Waltham) said “Sean’s Bill” - named in honor of 8-year-old Sean Kearney of Plymouth, who was crushed to death by an ATV in 2006 while on a playdate - passed 141-12. [ read more ] [05.28.10] WASHINGTON, May 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) riders to take precautions to stay safe this holiday weekend and riding season. For the 4-day period surrounding the 2009 Memorial Day holiday, CPSC is aware of 27 fatalities, with two under the age of 16, averaging almost seven deaths a day. [ read more ] [05.27.10] Toronto, Ontario – All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are powerful machines that are beyond the skill level of children and youth, according to brain and spinal cord injury prevention association ThinkFirst Canada, which is warning parents not to teach their children to ride them. [ read more ] [05.25.10] In late January, the Massachusetts Senate passed a bill that would have improved safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). But the House has yet to act on it. Considering the growing popularity of dirt bikes on Cape Cod and the Islands, our legislative delegation needs to convince the leadership to push this legislation to the floor for a vote. [ read more ] [04.14.10] The mother of a 12-year-old boy killed while riding an all terrain vehicle nearly three years ago is now calling for an all-out ban on the machine for young children. The woman's message comes as a fatality inquiry into her son's death emerges. Kirkland Gour died in 2007 after his ATV flipped near the family's home in Nampa, Alta. [ read more ] [04.08.10] Makers of all-terrain vehicles promised to monitor dealers to prevent the sale of powerful adult model ATVs to kids under 16. But an undercover investigation by the Government Accounting Office suggests self-policing isn’t working. [ read more ] [03.23.10] Larry Foreman is “a libertarian at heart,” but not when it comes to kids. A veteran emergency room physician — he works at the closest ER to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area in San Luis Obispo County, California — he’s seen an endless queue of injured riders of all-terrain vehicles, including children as young as 4. Eventually, Foreman had enough and began speaking out about kids and ATVs. [ read more ] [03.11.10] Two new studies report a high rate of severe injuries -- including amputations, spinal injuries and even death -- among children who ride all-terrain vehicles. "A spine injury is such a devastating injury for a young person," said Dr. Jeffrey R. Sawyer, an assistant professor of orthopaedics with the Campbell Clinic at the University of Tennessee, and a co-author on both papers. [ read more ] [03.09.10] Q: My 12-year-old son has been begging for one of those four-wheel ATVs (all terrain vehicles). I am very worried; how safe are these? A: The statistics for the estimated 2 million or so children under 16 years old who ride ATVs are concerning. Over 100,000 kids are injured every year while riding an ATV, with 40,000 requiring a visit to the emergency room due to the severity of their injuries. [ read more ] [03.08.10] Every time Dr. Shannon Smith hears of a child being injured or killed in an ATV accident she’s more convinced that Mississippi needs a tougher ATV safety law. That’s one of the reason’s Smith, a pediatric rehab physician at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, has written letters and called members of the Mississippi Legislature to encourage tougher ATV safety laws. [ read more ] 02.01.10] Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) announced recently that the Senate has passed legislation improving safety regulations for operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in Massachusetts. The bill requires ATVs, off-road motorcycles and snowmobiles to be registered and all operators to wear helmets. It also establishes a minimum age of use for ATVs. [ read more ] [01.28.10] Data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) show child deaths and serious injuries caused by all-terrain vehicles appear to have decreased in 2008. However, at least 74 children lost their lives and more than 37,000 were injured seriously enough to require treatment in a hospital emergency department. [ read more ] [12.18.09] State Rep. Dannie Reed, R-Ackerman, plans to introduce legislation to require safe practices and encourage safety education for all-terrain vehicle use. Reed issued a statement Thursday warning that ATV use is killing and injuring drivers and passengers more than hazards than normally dealt with in the state. [ read more ] [11.23.09] For parents wanting to provide their children some good, clean off-roading fun, the Fushin, a smaller-than-normal all-terrain vehicle, seemed just the thing. Except the Chinese import with jaunty yellow
paint and a low $250 price tag was missing one feature: front brakes. [10.24.09] On a warm Alberta summer's night in 2004, Ted Bosse received the news that would change his and his wife Teresa's lives forever. The all terrain vehicle their son Chris had been riding flipped, leaving him lying critically injured on the road. By the time that Ted Bosse got to his son, it
was clear that Chris wasn't going to survive. His father held him
but he was already gone. Chris was sober and an experienced ATV
driver. The road he was driving on was flat. [8.21.09] Last Friday night outside Williamsport, two 18-year-olds driving two all-terrain vehicles crashed head-on in a field. The boys, 2009 graduates of Jersey Shore High School, died of their injuries. A 14-year-old passenger was critically injured. Not one was wearing a helmet. [8.10.09] A 3-year-old girl died Saturday evening when the ATV her 8-year-old brother was driving crashed and rolled over on her, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office said in a news release. The boy suffered facial injuries, authorities said; the children's 10-year-old sister who also was on the vehicle escaped harm. [8.4.09] It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Keep kids safe when riding ATVs by following important safety rules It happened to an 11 year-old boy riding with his uncle. It happened to a 12 year-old boy wearing a helmet. It happened to a two year-old boy riding with his dad. It happened to a 16 year-old boy riding with a 13 year-old girl. And it happened to a six year-old girl riding with her stepsister. And they aren't the only ones. Trendy Off - Road Vehicle Poses Deadly Risk It's like a muscle-car for the backcountry - the hottest trend in off-road vehicles. But a four-month CBS News investigation has found evidence that the popular Yamaha Rhino doesn't need to be busting over tough terrain to be dangerous. Children should not ride, drive ATVs Many families associate fun in the sun with riding three and four-wheel vehicles. All Terrain Vehicles Are 'Not a Toy' Says Michigan Accident Attorney Terry Cochran Misguided parents, wanting their children to have a good time, will buy an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) for family recreation only to have a loved one end up in the emergency room - possibly injured for life or worse. It's time to reduce the West's ATV carnage At least 24 people have been killed in all-terrain-vehicle accidents in the West since mid-March, the onset of warm riding weather. A 9-year-old girl in Arizona was among them. So were a 10-year-old boy in California, an off-duty sheriff's deputy in Utah, and 16-year-old girls in Wyoming and Arizona. [ read more ] All-Terrain Vehicles Potentially Lethal All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are potentially lethal and have the capacity to inflict serious harm, a study of injuries to children has confirmed. Physicians warn that ATVs, kids can be a dangerous combination Ft. Myers Florida Weekly All-terrain vehicles and kids can be a dangerous mix, especially for those who tend to treat the ATVs like toys instead of high-powered vehicles. [4.24.09] Three years ago, Roger Queen was riding an all-terrain vehicle on a curvy mountain road in North Carolina when he lost control and fell over the ledge. He landed on his feet nearly 60 feet below the road, crushing his spinal cord and shattering his spine. Yamaha Motor Corp. Offers Free Repair For 450, 660, and 700 Model Rhino Vehicles U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif., is announcing a free repair program to address safety issues with all Rhino 450, 660, and 700 model off-highway recreational vehicles. Yamaha has also agreed to voluntarily suspend sale of these models immediately until repaired. Consumers should immediately stop using these popular recreational vehicles until the repair is installed by a dealer. CPSC staff has investigated more than 50 incidents involving these three Rhino models, including 46 driver and passenger deaths involving the Rhino 450 and 660 models. More than two-thirds of the cases involved rollovers and many involved unbelted occupants. Of the rollover-related deaths and hundreds of reported injuries, some of which were serious, many appear to involve turns at relatively low speeds and on level terrain. About 120,000 of the 450 and 660 model Rhinos have been distributed nationwide since Fall 2003. Some units have been equipped by Yamaha with half doors and additional passenger handholds, either before or after sale. [ read more ] [3.19.09] When Katie Tuminello was flung from a four-wheeler this summer, the crash caused so many injuries that she was flown by helicopter to a Baton Rouge hospital. [2.27.09] The safety defects of some Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), also called "Side-by-Side" vehicles, are causing a mounting toll of death and severe injury to users, warns a report issued today by a group of safety advocates and victims. The report calls for basic changes in the design of these rollover-prone off-road vehicles to substantially increase their ability to protect occupants in the event of rollover accidents. The report, entitled "Citizen Report on UTV Vehicle Hazards," has been submitted by victims of UTV rollovers, including the parents of children killed or injured in such accidents, as well as adult victims, the Trauma Foundation, and the Center for Auto Safety. News Reports Find Poor Design of Rhino Terrain Vehicles Linked to Serious Injuries and Deaths PPR Web South Florida law firm Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley PA (Searcy Denney) steps up its investigation into serious injuries and deaths tied to design defects in Yamaha Rhino® all terrain vehicles. The Rhino®, classified as a "utility terrain vehicle," is not subject to the same safety standards as other ATVs. [1.17.09] In December, a West Virginia mother pleaded not guilty to child neglect charges stemming from an all-terrain vehicle wreck in which her 2-year-old son was hurt. She ran off the road into a ditch, and the ATV flipped several times, according to police reports. [2.28.09] After losing part of his leg in an ATV accident last year, a Brevard County teen is playing baseball once again. Dakota "Kody" Best, 13, took the mound Friday for his JV team at Florida Air Academy. [ read more ][2.27.09] It was an accident that nearly took the life of 8-year-old Cassidy Smith of Sanilac County. But the staff at Hurley Medical Center in Flint was able to save her life. [ read more ]CURRENT NEWS | 2008 ARCHIVE | 2007 ARCHIVE | 2005 ARCHIVE
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