The compelling impact of ATV deaths and injuries requires design and other changes to substantially reduce these preventable incidents. According to James M. Perrin, M.D., President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, ATVs pose a danger to children, as children are not developmentally capable of operating these heavy, complex machines. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns all parents that no child under the age of 16 should drive or ride an ATV.
The CPSC released its 2012 annual report of ATV-related deaths and injuries on April 24, 2014. The major findings include:
- Estimates of serious injuries requiring Emergency Room treatment among people of all ages increased from 107,500 in 2011 to 107,900 in 2012. This 2012 injury estimate for all ages reflects an increase of .4 percent compared to the 2011 estimate. The estimated number of ATV-related fatalities for all ages decreased from 771 in 2010 to 684 in 2011.
In 2012, ATVs killed at least 54 children younger than 16, accounting for 15% of ATV fatalities. 57% of children killed were younger than 12 years old. Children under age 16 suffered an estimated 26,500 serious injuries in 2012—a decrease from 29,000 in 2011—which represented 25% of all injuries.
Over the years, consumer groups have repeatedly called upon the CPSC to ban the usage of adult-sized ATVs for children. In March 2014, a report entitled “ATVs on Roadways A Safety Crisis” showed the growing trend of states allowing ATV use on roads, which contradicts recommendations made by CPSC. Another avenue of consideration is having the agency reject the manufacturer of a transitional, “youth model” ATV for 14 to 16-year-olds that is still capable of traveling upwards of 38 mph.
If you, your family member, or friend has been injured in an ATV incident, contact a Phoenix Personal Injury Attorney at Simon Law Group. Our team of experts will help maximize your recovery. Call us today at 480-745-2450 or contact us at [email protected].
]]>
