Important ATV Safety Advice; Former NBA Player Rodney Rogers Injured in ATV Accident

In a tragic turn of events, former NBA player Rodney Rogers was paralyzed in an all-terrain vehicle accident (ATV ) on December 1st, 2008, when he fell off his vehicle in the woods of Vance County, as reported by ESPN. He played in the NBA for 12 years and was acclaimed for his ability to shoot 3-pointers; a whopping 34.7 percent average for over a decade of playing. Rogers, now aged 37, could not give up his love for the outdoors and extreme sports - which included runs on his ATV vehicle.

But such an accident should not go ignored. ATV injuries, especially ones as devastating as paralysis, can happen to anyone who doesn't prepare himself for the dangers involved. Rodney Roger's accident should show us the importance of these safety tips and advice for riding an ATV vehicle.

The Dangers of ATV Defined

Did you know that the most common ATV accidents involve the head and spine? This vehicle weighs more than 500 pounds and can speed up to 60 miles per hour. It's not a pleasant thought regarding the permanent damage to your body. Do not treat it as something less than a car. Rodney Rogers had his accident in the rural woods, where terrain is harsh. ATV safety does not recommend high speeds in such areas.

Important ATV Safety Advice

Always wear your helmet! Statistics show that young people, the demographic most involved in ATV accidents, end up in their situations because they did not wear helmets. It's not worth severe damage to your brain and skull to look cool, so I make sure I put on a helmet when I ride my vehicle.

Wear eye protection and strongly avoid taking on additional passengers. To minimize bruises and scrapes, wear long sleeve shirts and sturdy jeans. If you experience a collision, you can reduce the amount of damage you take. Remember, ATV accidents are most common in children and teenagers under 16. Parents, be responsible and make sure these vehicles aren't being used like toys. My own parents strictly supervised my driving and didn't even let me ride until I received my driver's license.

Never use a damaged or improper ATV vehicle, such as a 3-wheeler. If you are inexperienced in riding ATV vehicles, it is highly important that you attend an ATV safety and driving course instead of relying on your buddies alone to teach you. All terrain driving is not the same as cruising down the highway.

Rodney Roger's unfortunate tragedy won't be forgotten by the NBA or by any of his fans. Disastrous life-changing injuries such as spinal paralysis are not that hard to come by when dealing with these vehicles. ATV safety is something everyone should know and it is something to be observed out of respect of Rodney Rogers.