Sports can be dangerous; especially with an all terrain vehicle, popularly called an ATV. It is an extremely popular activity among children. An area of concern has been the increasing number of deaths related to ATVs in the US. The annual report of the USCPC – United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reveals that the total number of casualties due to ATV crashes totaled 542 in 2007. These crashes cost Americans a total of $6.5 billion in medical and legal fields every year. The rising figures have alarmed consumer groups, environmentalists, child safety advocates as well as medical professionals.

The American Academy of Orthopedic surgeons collectively believe that that the use of ATV poses a major threat to public safety as the ATV industry fails to upgrade safety measures.

Why ATVs are dangerous

Recent reports have proved that certain ATVs have design flaws. Such flaws can endanger a rider, leading to serious accidents and subsequently death, in some cases.

Other reasons that make ATVs dangerous are:

• It has high a center of gravity
• Lack of suspension impacts the vehicle
• It has little or no rear wheel differential
• It is unstable at high speed
• Widespread ATV misuse (high speed, riding in low lighting conditions without proper safety measures, lack of expertise in driving)
• Driving under influence of alcohol and/or drugs
• Driving in unsuitable places like roads, streets and/or highways

Further, daring riders tend to incline too much and ultimately rollover with the vehicle leading to fatal circumstances.

Are Advertisements Misleading?

An average ATV will not be able to move in steep inclines, but sometimes their marketing material says so. The vehicle is specially designed to a limited zone, usage and circumstances. Lack of sincerity is seen with ATV manufacturers; their enticing TV ad campaigns show a glamorous and daring side of ATV products, making it popular among teenagers and young men. The makers make a deliberate attempt to underplay risks and hazards associated with ATV driving. The ATVs are designed for flat surfaces only with an exception of mild incline.

Precautionary steps

An ATV rider should undergo special training for correct usage of this vehicle. One should check designs of the ATVs and avoid ill famed vehicles like the Yamaha Rhino ATV. Other precautions include:

• Protective clothing
• Special training and rider education
• Understand usage of ATV

Seek legal help

Many states in the US report ATV crashes to law enforcement divisions within a certain time period. You have a legal right to claim money and file lawsuits against those who deliberately cause or are responsible for acts of recklessness and negligence. Even an adult failing to supervise correct usage of ATV can be held responsible in case of an accident. To claim injury benefits, consult an experienced attorney right away.

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