Published: July 01, 2008 02:19 pm         

ATV deaths: KY ranks top in nation for age 21 and under

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use has become popular for work and recreation. Unfortunately, research indicates a rise in fatalities and injuries involving ATVs, mostly due to driver misuse and inappropriate rider behavior. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Kentucky is second in the nation with over 140 total reported ATV deaths from 2003 to 2006, and number one in the nation for ATV deaths age 21 and under.

Kentucky law states that all riders (operator and passengers) 16 or over on public property must wear a helmet, except those using the ATV for agricultural or business purposes; all riders (operators and passengers) under age 16 must wear helmets; no one under 12 may operate an ATV over 70 cc in engine size; no one under 16 may operate an ATV over 90 cc in engine size; no one under 16 may operate an ATV without parental supervision and that ATV use on public roads or highways is prohibited, except to cross these roads or for agricultural use.

The top Kentucky counties in ATV deaths are Pike, Breathitt, Floyd, Harlan, Letcher, Clay, Leslie, Pulaski, Bell, Laurel, Perry, Trigg and Whitley.

ATV Safety Tips

• Receive proper training on driving an ATV.

• Wear an approved helmet and protective clothing.

• Do not operate on paved roads and avoid unfamiliar terrain.

• Read the owner’s manual carefully, and keep the ATV in good repair.

• Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV.

• Do not drive in adverse weather, hazardous terrain, or insufficient light.

• Do not take unnecessary risks such as performing stunts, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving at excessive speeds.

• Children should never ride or be a passenger on an adult ATV, and should be supervised at all times.

• Make sure the helmet is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the American National Standards Institute, or the Snell Memorial Foundation.

• Make sure the helmet fits properly with comfortable padding, a seal around the ear, and a neck roll.

• Always fasten the chinstrap so it doesn’t come off in a crash.

• Helmets deteriorate with age and should be replaced after a maximum of five years (check manufacturer instructions.) Helmets must also be replaced if involved in a crash, or a dent or crack is visible.

• Helmets protect your eyes and ears from the wind, therefore helping you to see and hear better. (If your helmet does not have a face shield, wear goggles.) By reducing the amount of wind, you will also be less fatigued!

• If your helmet has a face shield, make sure it’s easy to open, stays in position when raised, and does not distort your view.

Thirty-five percent of ATV related deaths involve people less than 16 years of age.*

Nearly one-half of all individuals injured in ATV crashes are under 16 years of age.*