WARNING: ATV’s Are Not a Toy – Know the Rules Before You Ride

Mar 14, 2014 | General

Spring is in the air. Although we are constantly being reminded that spring has not yet arrived in Northern Michigan, it is just around the corner. If you are one of the thousands of ATV owners in Northern Michigan, you are likely ready to get out there and start enjoying some much needed fun time outdoors. Michigan offers over 3,700 miles of trails for ATV’s/ORV’s in addition to five scramble areas, 73% of which are located on public land.  While this is a wonderful way to enjoy the warm weather in Michigan, it can also be dangerous, especially for children.  The facts tell the story.

  • ATV accidents kill or injures 100 kids a day without a license
  • 4 out of 10 people treated in the emergency rooms in America with ATV related injuries are kids under 16
  • Most injuries and death’s associated with ATV’s are due to improper use

What To Do and Not To Do When Riding ATV’s – Michigan ATV Safety Tips

  • DO know your ATV’s capabilities and what it was designed for – Adults riding adult sized ATV’s carrying a child as a passenger are one of the leading causes of ATV injuries. If you were to look at many ATV’s you would find a label attached in clear sight making you aware of the fact that it was not designed to carry passengers. This label can usually be found on the rear of the vehicle. Never carry a passenger on a single-ride ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
  • DO NOT operate an ATV which is not the right size for you – Those over 16 may ride adult size ATV’s however, those younger should be riding a youth or children sized ATV specifically designed for their age/weight restrictions. A child operating an adult sized ATV is perhaps one of the largest causes of ATV related death and permanent injuries in America.
  • DO supervise your children under 16 at all times – It is a Michigan law that those under 16 operating an ATV be supervised  at all times while riding. This means that the child must be in your sight and close enough that you can help in case of emergency.
  • DO NOT ride ATV’s on paved roads – ATV’s are meant to be off-road
  • DO wear a DOT compliant helmet – Drivers as well passengers on those ATV’s which allow for passengers.
  • DO be aware of product recalls – Like other vehicles, ATV’s can have issues which may arise and pose a risk to your safety. Being aware of any recalls in regard to your ATV may help keep you safe. You can learn more about recalls by visiting the Consumer Product Safety Commission at CPSC.Gov.
  • DO follow all laws issued by your state and local government – Like many laws, laws regarding ATV’s and their use may vary from state to state and even township to township.

Protect yourself and your loved ones by being informed and careful.

Michigan ATV Safety

To learn more about Michigan ATV safety listen to our webcast by Linda Miller Atkinson – May 2012 entitled Preventing ATV Injuries and Deaths.

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