MIDDLESBORO — ATV fatalities are becoming far too familiar to state and local law enforcement agencies. In Kentucky, an overwhelming 367 ATV deaths were reported from 1982-2006; 60 of those deaths were children under the age of 16, according to a US Consumer Safety Report.

Over the past three years, the number of four-wheeler complaints in Middlesboro have risen dramatically. Concerned citizens often alert police dispatchers of a reckless driver, trespasser, or loud noise complaint pertaining to an inconsiderate ATV operator.

Police Chief Jeff Sharpe said, ”Generally, anyone who is caught will be cited for all available ATV violations” and towing ATV’s is always an option. Sharpe said an extremely popular place for ATV riders was the “levy wall” (located above Airport Rd.). The levy is owned by the Corps of Engineers and ATV’s often erode and damage the property. Caution signs are posted along the wall’s perimeter, but riders often avoid the warning.

Officials believe ATV laws are continually ignored because patrons are not aware of what they can and cannot do while operating their vehicle. According to www.atvsafety.gov:

All riders 16 and over — operator or passenger — must wear a helmet

ATV use on a public road or highway is prohibited

Any driver 16 or over must have a valid operator’s license

It is state policy to promote an environment for all people free from noise that jeopardizes their health or welfare of degrades the quality of life

These laws may have you wondering: Where can ATV riders go, without effecting the community, road access and landowners? In an effort to promote Adventure Tourism, the Bell County Holler Crawlers ATV club currently has 105 miles of trails along Mountain Drive that can be utilized by the public as well as by club members. The Mountain Drive trail has a gravel parking lot for trucks and trailers, alongside Highway 188 in Colmar.

“We, as a club are out to prove that we can help offset the negative impact done by ATV’s and hopefully help change the mindsets of people who ride their ATV’s without any regard for nature,” stated Holler Crawlers Organizer, Jon Grace. Grace went on to say, “I would hope that the public would use their common sense while riding ATV’s.”

Safety training and education are the best methods to reduce injuries and deaths related to ATV’s. Training courses are being offered by KSP in an effort to curb Kentucky’s current status as one of the deadliest states in relation to ATV accidents. Kentucky has applied for a $250,000 grant to practice ATV training state-wide.

Anyone interested in ATV Safety and Training, may contact the Department of Agriculture at (502) 564-4696 or Kentucky State Police at 502-695-6353.

Sarah Miracle is a staff writer for the Daily News. She can be reached via e-mail at smiracle@middlesborodailynews.com.