The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a press release urging riders to keep All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) off of paved public roads. According to the CPSC, each year, there are about 650 deaths and 100,000 injuries involving ATVs. With the passing of Memorial Day weekend ushering in the beginning of summer, more ATV riders are expected to be out enjoying the beautiful weather. During this busy outdoor season, officials with the CPSC want to remind riders to keep ATVs off of roadways. These vehicles are designed for off-road activities only.
ATVs Are Off-Road Vehicles
Riding on paved roads is one of the top risk factors for injury causing and potentially fatal ATV crashes. Even if your town or county allows ATVs on public paved roadways, riders are still urged to stay off of these roads. Four wheelers are not designed to travel over pavement, and crashes involving cars and other larger passenger vehicles can be deadly for riders on four wheelers. Almost one-third (32 percent) of reported ATV deaths between 2010 and 2013 were related to incidents involving ATVs being ridden or paved roads or parking lots.
CPSC’s Need-to-Know Info on ATVs and Paved Roads
- Off-road vehicles are designed to be driven only on off-road terrain, not paved surfaces.
- Off-road vehicles are difficult to control on paved surfaces and are at-risk of overturning.
- On paved roads, off-road vehicles are at a higher risk of colliding with cars, trucks and other vehicles.
- In many states, it is illegal to ride off-road vehicles on paved roads.
Improving ATV Safety in San Jose
ATV riders in San Jose and San Francisco can improve their personal safety by always wearing a helmet and other protective gear when riding. Additionally, the CPSC urges people to never ride with more passengers than there are seats. Hands-on training with a qualified instructor is encouraged, and riders younger than 16 should only drive age-appropriated youth model ATVs, never adult-sized ATVs.
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.
