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Show 3 I ipj (CdDDflsiminnifiDiig HunttoircBStt ATV education can prevent rider injuries submitted by Ron Daines, consumer writer for the Utah State Extension Service The popularity of three-wheeled, all-terrain, vehicles (ATVs) has soared in recent years and so has the number of accidents involving these recreational and work vehicles. Dr. Paul Edmunds, Utah State ; University Extension safety specialist, special-ist, said the increase in accidents has resulted in efforts to teach rider safety by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. ATVs are small motorized cycles with three (and sometimes four) large, soft tires. They are designed -4 for off-road use on a variety of f terrains. The Commission reports that ATV-related injuries treated in hosnital emergency rooms jumped from 8,600 in 1982 to 27,600 in 1983. In the first nine months of last year, 53,200 mishaps were reported. Two-thirds of these accidents involved people between the ages of five and 24 and one-third involved young people under age 15. The Commission has told major ATV makers that reforms can be expected if injuries and deaths are not reduced. The makers say most of the accidents are the result of rider error and, along with the Commission, they have undertaken a campaign to educate ATV operators and the parents of children who operate ATVs. These safety suggestions can help riders avoid injuries: Because ATVs have different handling characteristics from most other vehicles, beginning riders whould get professional instruction and certification. Before operating an ATV on rough terrain, riders should practice on a level area and then, under supervision, try a more difficult environment. Most ATV accidents result from unexpectedly hitting objects such as rocks or ditches. To prevent injury from such instances, avoid speeds that are too fast for the terrain being traveled. ATVs are not oversized tricycles. tricy-cles. Parents should supervise their, use by children and allow children to ride only when they are old enough. Always wear an approved helmet and other protective gear. Don't ride double. ATVs are designed only for one person. Don't drink or take drugs and Hrive. Read the instruction manual and always run a maintenance check before operating an ATV. Don't used ATVs on paved roads. The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America also reminds ATV operators not to abuse the environment and offers these guidelines: Stay on existing trails wherever possible. Don't destroy vegetation, especially in sensitive areas like sand dunes, marshes and alpine areas. Don't litter. Carry out what you carry in. Don't bother wildlife. If you see animals, expecially large ones like deer, allow them to move away at their own pace, without panic. Know whose land you are using and stay off posted land. And leave gates and fences as you found them. |