ATV Accidents Fatal

Thousands of people have died in accidents involving all terrain vehicles (ATV’s). During a recent six-month period, for instance, three farmers were killed in separate ATV accidents.

In the first incident, a farmer on a four-wheel ATV was spraying weeds. When he didn’t return home, his son went looking and found the farmer lying under the vehicle. The victim died from chest and head injuries.

In another incident, a farmer’s three-wheel ATV hit a rut in a pasture. He was thrown from the vehicle and died of a broken neck.

In the third incident, a farmer was driving a four-wheel ATV on a country road. The ATV made a sharp left turn and left the road. The victim was thrown off and the vehicle landed on top of him. He died from head trauma.

To safely operate an ATV:

• Always wear an approved helmet and eye protection.
• Don’t operate an ATV on pavement. ATV’s aren’t designed for it and may be difficult to control.
• Never drive an ATV at excessive speeds. Make sure your speed is safe for the terrain, visibility conditions and your experience.