Guide to ATV Safety

The past two weeks have been very difficult for our community. The sixteen year old son of a local doctor was killed in an ATV accident. This young man had a lot going for him. He was involved in several sports: basketball, baseball, and football. He had a huge heart, according to everyone who knew him. He always took in those that were new to the district or that might not be as privileged as he was. He was just an All-American teenager.

One day last week, he had a friend over at his house. They were "hanging out" until time to go back to school for their basketball game. They made the unfortunate decision to ride the "mule". The friend was driving and somehow lost control, throwing the young man out. The "mule" then overturned and landed on his head. He died several times before they could even get him to the hospital. They then did surgery to try to release pressure on the brain. Once he was stablized, they air lifted him to a nearby children's hospital. He didn't make it.

This young man is just one example of the dangers of ATVs. Now, don't get me wrong, I love riding our four-wheelers, but there comes a time when safety should be the main concern. Up until this accident, I've ridden without a helmet. I've also let my son ride his without a helmet. It won't happen anymore. From now on, no one rides unless they are wearing a helmet. My son just thinks I'm terrible, but at the same time, he also knows what just happened in our community and won't argue with me about it.

I've been researching ATV safety guidelines and found some on the ATV Safety Institute website. They have what is called the ATV Golden Rules:

"1. Always wear a helmet and other protective gear.

2. Never ride on public roads - another vehicle could hit you.

3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider vehicle.

5. Ride an ATV that's right for your age.

6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.

7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.

8. Take an ATV RiderCourse; Call Toll-free at 800-887-2887, or go to www.atvsafety.org"

I want to talk about each rule. Number one: helmet and gear. This can be an expensive thing and a lot of people don't purchase what they need in order to ride safely. The one item we have for our son, but need for ourselves (my husband and I) is the helmet. We used to make him wear it all of the time on his four-wheeler, then he started complaining about it being hot, etc. So, we caved and let him ride without it. From now on, though, he will be wearing it. We will also be purchasing helmets for ourselves. I just don't think I can climb back on without one knowing what happened to that young man. I want to keep my family safe, me included. Not only are helmets important, but you can get safety glasses, gloves, even complete riding suits. Shoes are important, too. You don't want to be barefoot or wearing flip-flops. Always wear boots or sneakers - something that completely covers your foot and won't fall off. This gear can really range in price. I went to www.motosport.com to get some prices on items. It can range anywhere from $40 to $600 or more. It depends on what you want and how serious a rider you are. When we bought our son's helmet, we paid $80 for it. It's a good one, too. It is a BMX type helmet - which means it not only covers his head, but has a piece that covers the chin as well. Remember, too, that if you are going to wear a helmet, you need to strap it on. What good will it do if you don't?

Rule number two: riding on roads. This one is difficult, especially where we live. We have trails in the woods behind our house, but we must use the public roads to get to them. I'm sure it's illegal just to cross the road, but until we live in a place with our own land, this is what we must do. Crossing the road is different than just riding around on it, though. You must remember that an ATV is not a moped or a scooter. It's not designed to be on the pavement anyway. I have heard of several fatal accidents in the state where people were riding on a public road, came around a corner and hit a car head on. This is the type of riding that needs to be avoided. If you know cars are on the road regularly, avoid it. ATVs are not seen as easily as cars are.

Rule number three: drinking and drugs. Well, there's not much I can say about this one except that this is just common sense. We already know drinking and drugs don't mix with driving regular cars, so why would it mix with an ATV?

Rule number four: carrying a passenger. This is another rule my family breaks all of the time. My son has a little girl friend that likes to ride around with him. Again, from now on, she won't. I have become a believer and follower of these Golden Rules. With his little friend hanging on to him, he can't manage the ATV as well. She is also a distraction he doesn't need. Besides that, she doesn't have a helmet or any safety gear to wear. I sure don't want the responsibility of her getting hurt. She could easily get flung off. I'm sure her parents would not mind me putting a stop to that. They do make two passenger ATVs, so when you purchase an ATV, consider one of those if you know you'll be needing it. It is designed differently and is safer for both riders.

Rule number five: age appropriate. Here are the recommendations for ages on ATVs: For ages six and up purchase only an ATV that is under 70cc. For ages 12 and up you can get a 70cc to 90cc. For sixteen and up they can handle over 90cc. When you go to buy an ATV, the dealer will help you in making the decision for the right one for you. Don't worry about your kids outgrowing them, you can always keep them for others to use or sell it. It seems there is always a market for ATVs no matter what their size is.

Rule number six: supervise. For any child under the age of 16, they need to be watched. I know that I trust my son way to much on his. He gets too daring and is really lucky he hasn't gotten hurt. From now on, he can't ride unless one of us is there to watch him or ride with him. (On our own ATV) Youngsters tend to get careless and forget that they can get hurt. So always be alert and watching when they are riding.

Rule number seven: trails and speed. A lot of places have ATV trails where you can ride. Some of these may cost and some may be free, you just have to check. We have access to woods with trails behind our house and that is where we usually ride. When we come across a posted sign, we turn around and go back. Don't ride on private property unless you have the owners permission. If the terrain is dangerous, watch your speed. There's no point in taking chances. ATVs tend to roll over very easily. A slow crawl never hurt anyone.

Rule number eight: ATV RiderCourse: Dealers will always get you connected with a person that can train you on ATV safety. It is important to take this course and learn as much as you can about your new vehicle. Most of the time, it is even a free course that comes with the purchase of a new ATV. Don't have the attitude that you know it all already. Listen to an expert that is trained and qualified in ATV safety. Knowledge is power.

Of course, there are common sense things with ATVs as well. Like, don't try to run anyone or anything over. Don't spook animals, especially if you are in a field with bulls! Try to avoid riding in congested areas. Most importantly, just be careful! ATVs are so much fun, but losing a life just isn't worth it. Keep it safe out there and enjoy life's other pleasures as well!