Jonathan Groner, MD

Articles

The Dangers of ATVs

May 01, 2009

An all-terrain vehicle-ATV-is described by the American National Standards Institute as one that "travels on low pressure tires, with a seat that is straddled by the operator, and with handlebars to be used for steering."1 By this definition, an ATV is designed for interactive riding by a single operator. Drivers are able to shift their weight freely in all directions depending on the situation and terrain. According to ATV safety standards and recommendations, children younger than 6 years are never to be on an ATV of any size-alone or with someone else.