ATV drivers should not operate these unstable four-wheelers on paved roads.
Riding on paved roads is one of the top five deadly mistakes ATV drivers can make.
Since 1982, 3,232 children have been killed on ATVs. Those deaths could have been avoided by following these rules:
- Do not drive ATVs on paved roads.
- Do not allow a child under 16 to drive or ride on an adult ATV.
- Do not drive ATVs with a passenger or ride as a passenger.
- Always wear a helmet and other protective gear such as eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
- Take a hands-on safety training course.
Four wheelers are designed to stay off road. They’re not roadworthy on paved roads. In fact, they can be difficult to control on paved roads and are at risk of easily over-turning. Commonly, ATVs are hit by cars and trucks when they enter paved roadways.
Although children may ask to drive adult-sized ATVs or ride as passengers, this is very dangerous. First, children are too small to safely control an adult-sized ATV. Secondly, additional passengers on a four-wheeler alter the ATVs center of gravity and handling. This makes it perform and react differently than expected and puts riders at risk for crashes.
Finally, if you’re going to drive an ATV, make sure to wear safety gear, including a helmet. Definitely take a hands-on safety training course.
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Alexander Law Group, LLP attorneys are always ready to answer questions and share the results of our research and experience with the public. As safety lawyers, our goal is to make a difference for our clients and our community.
