With summer right around the corner, you may already be dreaming about dusting off your all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and doing some serious off-roading. If that’s the case, you are not alone.
One market analysis found the North American ATV and utility terrain vehicles (UTV) was worth more than $5.6 billion last year. Experts expect that number to top the $7.5 billion mark in five years. Experts also anticipate that the United States will continue to lead the North American market in ATV/UTV sales, thanks to military demand and ongoing consumer popularity.
As the report notes, ATVs and UTVs appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy hunting, nature exploration, hiking, and other outdoor activities. In other words, they are perfect for California adventures.
As the report also notes, however, “these vehicles are often very risky and dangerous.” Furthermore, the reports that the number of accidents and incidents associated with these machines will increase along with sales and ownership. Savvy manufacturers will have a chance to corner the market by addressing safety concerns, experts say.
In the meantime, the question remains: how dangerous are ATVs?
What is an ATV ?
An ATV is generally classified as a vehicle equipped with four low-pressure tires and handlebars. It is primarily designed for off-road use, and may be classified by engine displacement, fuel type, uses, and more.
Some of the best-known makers include:
- Kubota
- Polaris
- Suzuki
- Honda
- Yamaha
- Deere Company
Due to their design and handling, experts say riders should be trained in their use.
ATV injury and fatality statistics
Last year, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued its most recent report detailing ATV injuries and deaths. Using the most recent available data the report documents more than 1,600 fatal incidents involving ATVs from 2015 to 2017. Those incidents claimed 1,697 lives.
Texas, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and California had the dubious distinction of being the top five states for both reported fatal ATV incidents and deaths from reported fatal ATV incidents during that time.
In the same report, the CPSC estimated that more than 506,000 people sought treatment at emergency rooms for injuries sustained in ATV accidents between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2019.
Finally, the CPSC report included injury data associated with off-highway vehicle (OHV) accidents from 2015 to 2019. This data includes but is not limited to injuries from ATV accidents.
That being stated, the data revealed that most of the people who treated for injuries at U.S. hospital emergency rooms following these accidents were treated for fractures. Accident victims were also treated for bruises, scrapes, cuts, and sprains and strains. Ten percent were treated for internal injuries.
Injuries to the head, neck and arm were most common, followed by injuries affecting the legs and torso.
Common causes of ATV accidents
The trouble with ATVs is that the design aspects that make them so fun to ride also make them dangerous. Among other things, they can be unstable and hard to handle, especially at high speeds. This sometimes leads to rollovers and collisions.
Common causes of ATV accidents include but are not limited to operator error, inexperience, drunk driving, driving on paved roads (where ATVs don’t handle well), and driving with one or more passengers on board. Faulty or malfunctioning parts may also cause accidents.
If you or someone you love was injured in an ATV accident, the personal injury lawyers here at the Law Office of Parag L. Amin P.C. (LawPLA) may be able to help. Contact us or schedule an appointment through our website to get started.
