MIDDLESBORO — With four All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) deaths occurring over the past weekend, there is no doubt that ATV safety is on most riders’ minds.

ATV riding has become an increasingly popular sport over the last few years, especially with the increased interest in adventure tourism in eastern Kentucky.

According to a report from WKYT/WYMT-TV, there were 13 ATV related deaths nationally over Memorial Day weekend, four of which were in eastern Kentucky.

In response to the number of deaths over the weekend the Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center (SCBIRC) at the University of Kentucky had representatives available to discuss some major issues concerning ATV riding and the precautions people can take when operating a vehicle.

“It is extremely important for people to wear the proper gear and take the proper safety training courses when riding ATV’s,” said SCBIRC Associate Director, Dr. Patrick Sullivan.

“I am an avid rider of motorcycles and street bikes myself,” said Dr. Sullivan. “I always make sure I wear my gear when I am riding.”

Sullivan noted that there is currently no treatment for most spinal and brain injuries. He says the only thing that can really be done to lessen the effects of this type of injury is to take preventative measures.

“Accidents are going to happen,” said Sullivan, but he added if an accident does occur and a person is wearing safety gear they are less likely to have a serious injury.

“The SCBIRC is actively pursuing treatment options; but right now the best bet for ATV riders is to have proper training, obey the rules, respect the laws, and wear their safety gear,” said Sullivan.

“I can’t stress that enough,” he added.

Out of the four fatalities that occurred this weekend three victims were not wearing helmets and three were minors.

Sullivan addressed the issue of minors riding ATV’s saying, “My children ride, but I always make sure they are wearing safety gear and that I am riding with them.”

Sullivan also said that any minor who wants to ride should be trained in an accredited course before ever going out on the vehicle.

Andrea Schneider is a Staff Writer for the Daily News. She can be contacted via e-mail at aschneider@middlesborodailynews.com.