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ATVs are Not Toys!

Mar 24, 2016 | 8:01 AM

The boom in all terrain vehicle (ATV) sales as meant many recreational users have one. In fact many weekend users have become quite accustomed to having “fun” on their “quad” for the weekend. ATVs are not toys. Serious injuries can result from improper use of ATVs, but with some preparation and practice, you can safely develop and expand your riding skills.

In February 2003, the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reported a 50 per cent increase in hospitalizations due to ATVs over the past five years (from 1,693 in 1996/1997 to 2,535 in 2000/2001). In the category of sports and recreation, ATV-related activities are now the third most common cause of severe injuries next to cycling and snowmobiling. According to CIHI, children between the ages of five and 19 accounted for more than one-third (36 per cent) of all ATV-related injuries. Of the 92 ATV-related severe injury admissions in 2000/2001 where alcohol involvement was recorded, 26 per cent had consumed alcohol. The provinces with the largest increases in ATV-related injuries were New Brunswick (90 per cent) and Alberta (89 per cent).

Serious injury or even death can result from the operation of an ATV.

Why?

An ATV lacks a roll bar; it lacks a seat belt; its use on off road terrain makes it more likely to be used on uneven surfaces where the potential to be tipped is greater.

Follow these safety reminders for a safe and enjoyable ride:

  • Ride off-road only, never on public roads.
  • Know your owner’s manual.
  • Wear an approved helmet.
  • Protect your eyes and body.
  • Check the ATV before you ride – is it in good mechanical order
  • Ride with others – never alone.
  • Know the area and be alert for hazards like fences, sharp drops or thin ice. Never ride on ice covered with water
  • Keep noise levels low.
  • Ride sober — no alcohol or drugs.
  • Lend your ATV to skilled riders only.
  • Preserve the environment.
  • Be courteous to all you meet.
  • Ride within your skill.
  • Respect riding area rules.
  • All ATV riders should abide by the following engine cc size and age restrictions: under 70 cc – 6 years of age and older; 70 cc to 90 cc – 12 years of age and older; over 90 cc – 16 years of age and older.
  • Make sure that your child has completed an approved rider-training course.
  • When riding in a group, place one adult-ridden ATV in front of the ATV ridden by your child and another adult-ridden ATV behind.
  • If just one adult and child are riding, the adult-ridden ATV should be in front to better control the speed.

Never carry a child on your ATV unless the ATV has been designed to carry two people.

Always bring water, a snack or two, and make sure other people know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

ALWAYS RIDE SAFELY AND RESPONSIBLY.

Illustration Courtesy Canada Safety Council