MIDDLESBORO — The state of Kentucky leads the nation in deaths from All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) accidents. ATV riding has become increasingly popular over the last few years, and with the increase in riders, unfortunately a simultaneous increase in accidents and even deaths has occurred.
It was recently reported by the Louisville Courier-Journal that there have been at least 30 deaths in 2007 in the state of Kentucky due to accidents involving ATVs. That is double the number of deaths in 2002, just five years ago.
“Kentucky has suffered more from injuries and deaths in ATV accidents than any other state,” stated Agricultural Commissioner Richie Farmer.
It is important for riders to make smart choices when out on their ATVs. The main reason for deaths and accidents is ignoring safety guidelines. Some of the broken safety guidelines that resulted in the 30 deaths this year were: Riding with out a helmet, riding with passengers, riding on public roads, riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, riding at excessive speeds, and children riding adult sized ATVs. There are several reasons for ATV accidents, but the most common reason people are hurt “is because the public doesn’t perceive the killing power of the machine,” stated Dr. Andrew Bernard a trauma surgeon at the University of Kentucky. “Appreciate the fact that the machine can hurt or kill you and do everything you can to keep it safe,” Bernard said.
An area ATV club, the Bell County Holler Crawlers, endorses safety when riding ATVs as well. “Always take all safety precautions and know your limits,” stated Jon Grace, President of the Bell County Holler Crawlers. Grace stated that safety is the most important factor when riding ATVs, and he made some suggestions for staying safe while riding. “Always wear your helmet. That’s the number one rule in our club,” stated Grace.
Do not ride with passengers, “doubling up riders doubles the risk of injury, and absolutely never operate an ATV under the influence of alcohol,” he said. It is also very important to avoid peer pressure to ride on terrain that is dangerous, especially if you are a new rider and unfamiliar with the machine.
Finally, he suggests parents should make sure their children ride on ATVs appropriate to their size, they should not ride adult sized vehicles. The best way to learn how to practice these safety precautions is through training. ATV safety training courses are offered in most areas and are suggested by ATV dealers and experienced enthusiasts. It is recommended that anyone interested in ATV riding take a safety course.
Enjoying the outdoors and mountainous terrain of the area on an ATV can be a lot of fun, but forgetting to be safe can be fatal.
Andrea Schneider is a Staff Writer for the Daily News. She can be contacted via e-mail at aschneider@middlesborodailynews.com.
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